Visualisation of diverticula of the upper part of the alimentary tract; comparison of roentgenologic and endoscopic techniques

Diverticula of the upper part of the alimentary tract, irrespective of their etiology, are frequently observed benign changes of the pharynx, oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. In the present work, patients of the II General Surgery Department of the Medical University of Lublin, with radiologically or endoscopically proved diverticula of the upper part of the alimentary tract, were examined. The presence of diverticula of such localisation was an indication for supplementary endoscopic or radiological examination. The localisation, size, diameter of the opening, mucosal relief of diverticula and its contiguity were checked and analysed. Our data suggest that both medical procedures are complementary to each other. All previously observed changes in diverticula of the thoracic part of the oesophagus and the infradiaphragm part of the alimentary tract were fully proved. The radiological examination gave a better view of Zenker’s diverticulum, especially in short and obese patients. Sampling and better visualisation of the diverticula opening testify to the unquestionable superiority of endoscopy. However, precise evaluation by radiological process fully completes the diagnostic protocol. Both diagnostic procedures are usually supplemented by manometric examination of the oesophagus and superior and inferior oesophageal sphincters. This enables the accurate diverticula etiology to be stated.