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POEM Surgery for Achalasia

Digestive Health | Last Active: Apr 15, 2023 | Replies (105)

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@suetileston

I have recently been diagnosed that I have Zenker Diverticulum and need to see a doctor who can perform the Z-Poem. I have been to 5 doctors so far and have been told that I am a high risk do to 3 necks surgeries with plates and screws in my neck. I have one more doctor I can see in Charleston, SC who has performed several z-poems, I'm just not sure due to the high risk that I am a candidate. I am in the process of referral. I have been going through this since January 2022 and its now July. It's getting old! Any advice?

Sue

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Replies to "I have recently been diagnosed that I have Zenker Diverticulum and need to see a doctor..."

Hello @suetileston and welcome to Mayo Connect. I can understand your concerns regarding treating Zenker Diverticulum. The type of surgery needed to correct this problem is one that needs a specially trained physician. You mention that you were at high risk because of previous neck surgeries. Is that correct?

I found a video on Mayo Clinic's website where Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist Ryan J. Law, D.O., discusses the approach he uses in performing this surgery. I would encourage you to look at this video,
https://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals/digestive-diseases/videos/minimally-invasive-treatment-advances-for-zenkers-diverticulum/vid-20528952