Postlaryngectomy dysphagia masking as velopharyngeal insufficiency: a simple solution for an anterior neopharyngeal diverticulum

Am J Otolaryngol. 2012 May-Jun;33(3):367-9. doi: 10.1016/j.amjoto.2011.08.013. Epub 2011 Oct 5.

Abstract

Postlaryngectomy dysphagia is a common occurrence and can be a source of emotional distress that results in a decrease in quality of life among a patient population that is already exposed to considerable morbidity. One etiologic source that is less commonly reported as a source for postlaryngectomy dysphagia, and perhaps overlooked, is an anterior neopharyngeal diverticulum. Herein, we describe a postlaryngectomy dysphagia caused by a neopharyngeal diverticulum masking as velopharyngeal insufficiency of liquids. The liquid dysphagia was immediately relieved via transoral endoscopic approach using the Harmonic scalpel to resect and simultaneously coagulate the posterior wall.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Deglutition Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Deglutition Disorders / etiology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Laryngeal Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Laryngectomy / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Postoperative Complications
  • Velopharyngeal Insufficiency / diagnosis*
  • Zenker Diverticulum / surgery*