Oesophageal pouches and diverticula: a pictorial review

Abstract

Diverticula of the oesophagus are rare. They can occur at any level, and are often defined by their anatomical location. Three categories are recognised, namely pharyngo-oesophageal, parabronchial and epiphrenic. Although these diverticula are often asymptomatic, patients can develop significant problems with dysphagia, regurgitation and aspiration. The causation of oesophageal diverticula is controversial; however, the popular current belief is that most occur because of oesophageal dysmotility. This paper demonstrates the categories of oesophageal diverticula pictorially, including the radiological features and underlying pathology.