A traction diverticulum may occur in the esophagus due to adhesions and scarring that develop following inflammation adjacent to the esophagus.
Clinical features of a traction diverticulum:
(1) The patient has a history of inflammation or scarring adjacent to the esophagus.
(2) The fibrous tissue pulls on the esophagus.
(3) The traction results in a wide-mouthed outpouching that is not pendant.
(4) The diverticulum tends to show a stable size, without significant enlargement over time.
The diverticulum tends to occur at a site other than that seen with Zenker’s diverticulum. Tracheitis can cause an outpouching of the anterior wall.
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Specialty: Gastroenterology
