Congenital true oesophageal diverticulum: a report and review of the literature

Abstract

Oesophageal diverticulum occurring secondary to motility disorders or gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common in adults but true congenital oesophageal diverticula are rare in infants and children. We present a case of a toddler boy who presented with dysphagia and vomiting after feeds after weaning was attempted starting at 6 months of age. Barium esophagogram revealed a diverticulum in the upper one-third of the oesophagus within the thoracic cavity. The child underwent multiple interventions elsewhere without definitive surgery that highlights the rarity of this condition. Thoracotomy and repair were performed by us with a satisfactory outcome. The review of the literature on the clinical presentation and management of this rare condition has been discussed, highlighting similar reported cases.