Zenker's Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy / Z-POEM

Z-POEM adapts the POEM tunneling technique to Zenker's diverticulum. A submucosal tunnel provides access to the cricopharyngeal muscle and permits controlled division of the septum.

Why is it important? The aim is to improve emptying of the pouch and relieve swallowing difficulty, regurgitation and cough related to retained food.

Diagnosis and treatment Evaluation commonly includes a barium swallow and endoscopic assessment. Suitability depends on pouch size, anatomy, symptom burden and the patient's overall condition.