S. Van Eeden et al., Comparison of the endoscopic stapling technique with more established procedures for pharyngeal pouches: results and patient satisfaction survey, J LARYNG OT, 113(3), 1999, pp. 237-240
Pharyngeal pouch surgery by the external approach has been shown to be effe
ctive but has a relatively high complication rate. We compared the outcome
of 17 patients who had cricopharyngeal myotomy alone or combined with excis
ion/inversion/suspension, simple pouch excision and Dohlman's procedure wit
h 17 patients who had the relatively new Endo GIA-30 endoscopic stapling te
chnique. Results were obtained retrospectively by postal questionnaire and
medical records. We conclude that endoscopic stapling shortens the return t
o normal diet and in-patient stay. These patients also experience better sw
allowing and are generally more satisfied with the procedure. We have accep
ted endoscopic stapling as the method of choice for the treatment of pharyn
geal pouches.