Long-term clinico-radiological assessment of endoscopic stapling of pharyngeal pouch: a series of cases

The endoscopic division of the pharyngeal pouch wall with a mechanical stapling device has become increasingly popular. When compared to open excision, the reduced operative time, early resumption of oral intake, and short in-patient stay with no early recurrence of symptoms, are the proposed advantages. Small pouches or thick walled pouches are not suitable for stapling. From December 1996 to December 1999, 32 patients were admitted to the Aberdeen Royal Infirmary for endoscopic stapling of a pharyngeal pouch. Five patients were unsuitable for stapling. In addition, three patients were treated for pouch recurrence after an external approach. Two patients required repeat stapling at a later date. Our results are encouraging in terms of short operation time and hospital admission, improvement of symptoms and minimal complication rate. Fifteen patients were assessed 24 months after the procedure with satisfaction surveys and contrast swallow X-rays. Subjective improvement was sustained throughout this period, despite radiological evidence of persistence of the pharyngeal pouch.