title: Management of a postradiation esophageal web in the setting of a coexisting Zenker's diverticulum.
abstract: We present a case of postradiation obstructive esophageal web, seen in the setting of a coexisting Zenker's diverticulum, that was treated with combined anterograde and retrograde esophagoscopy puncture and dilation. We also review the relevant literature. Obstructing esophageal webs and stenoses are well-documented complications seen in patients with head and neck cancer treated with radiation therapy. For thin webs, combined anterograde and retrograde esophagoscopy along with puncture and dilation can be a relatively safe treatment option for selected patients. The presence of a coexisting Zenker's diverticulum may predispose the patient to the development of postradiation esophageal complications and make subsequent assessment more difficult to perform.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
authors.forename: Ameer T
authors.initials: AT
authors.lastname: Shah
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
authors.forename: Richard O
authors.initials: RO
authors.lastname: Wein
mesh_terms: D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D004940:Esophageal Stenosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D004945:Esophagoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011832:Radiation Injuries / Q000150:complications / Q000601:surgery*; D000077195:Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Head and Neck; D016672:Zenker Diverticulum / Q000150:complications*