Korean J Gastrointest Endosc.  2007 Apr;34(4):200-204.

Massive Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding from a Traction Type of Diverticulum in the Midesophagus

• Jang CS
• Kwon KA
• Choi SJ
• Kim YS
• Ku YS
• Song KS
• Chang US
• Yu SK
• Park DK
• Kim YK
• Kim JH

Abstract

The common sites of esophageal diverticula are the pharyngoesophageal junction, midesophagus and epiphrenic. The pathophysiological mechanisms of acquired esophageal diverticula are traction and pulsion forces. Traction diverticula of the midesophagus are usually asymptomatic, and found incidentally on an esophagogastroduodenoscopy or barium contrast esophagogram. Midesophageal traction diverticula are caused by inflammatory processes between the external wall of the esophagus and the adjacent structure. Pneumonia, bronchoesophageal fistula and gastrointestinal bleeding can occur due to an extension of inflammatory process into the lung or blood vessels. There are a few reports of midesophageal diverticular bleeding. We present a case of massive upper gastrointestinal bleeding from a traction diverticulum of the midesophagus that was successfully managed by endoscopic treatment.

Keyword

Esophageal diverticulum; Upper gastrointestinal bleeding; Endoscopy

MeSH Terms

Barium
Blood Vessels
Diverticulum*
Diverticulum, Esophageal
Endoscopy
Endoscopy, Digestive System
Esophagus
Fistula
Hemorrhage*
Lung
Pneumonia
Traction*
Barium