Modified submucosal tunneling endoscopic septum division for symptomatic esophageal diverticula: a prospective case series (with video).

Background And Aims: Submucosal tunneling endoscopic septum division (STESD) is a valid endoscopic modality for treating esophageal diverticula. However, it requires highly skilled endoscopists. Here, we propose a modified STESD method.

Methods: This is a single-center, prospective case series. We consecutively enrolled 8 patients diagnosed with esophageal diverticula. All patients underwent the modified STESD by 1 experienced endoscopist.

Results: Only 1 patient had intraoperative bleeding, which was successfully stopped endoscopically. The mean ± standard deviation size of the diverticula was 3.16 ± 1.14 cm. The operation time ranged from 27 to 68 minutes, with a mean value of 40.88 minutes. The number of clips ranged from 4 to 8. The success rate was 100%. None of the patients had symptom recurrences during 2 to 25 months of follow-up.

Conclusions: The modified STESD method for esophageal diverticula is effective and safe; further large prospective controlled studies are needed.