Assessment of videofluoroscopic swallow study findings before and after cricopharyngeal myotomy

Background: Cricopharyngeal myotomy is a treatment for obstructive cricopharyngeal bar and Zenker's diverticulitis. Little is reported regarding contrast study findings and their correlation with patient symptoms. Methods: All patients treated by cricopharyngeal myotomy underwent a preoperative and postoperative videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS) and completed the self-reported Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10). Studies were analyzed quantitatively. Results: Forty cricopharyngeal myotomies were performed (mean age 76 years; SD 8.72) all for dysphagia. Symptomatic improvement (change in EAT-10 scores) occurred in 95% (38/40). Presurgical versus postsurgical VFSS demonstrated significantly improved pharyngoesophageal segment opening, pharyngeal constriction ratio, and pouch residue (P <.01). Symptomatic improvement was unrelated to the presence of retained barium. Conclusion: Both symptomatic and objective improvement in swallowing measures occurs after cricopharyngeal myotomy. Pouch remnants and retained barium are seen postoperatively but do not correlate with reported symptoms. Routine follow-up barium studies may be needed to establish a new baseline and allow for comparison if future symptom recurrence occurs.