Z-POEM Procedure

Zenker's diverticulum is a condition where a pouch forms in the throat, causing difficulty swallowing, choking or regurgitation of food. 

If you're struggling with these symptoms, the Z-POEM procedure offers a minimally invasive solution to treat it effectively.

Our approach to Z-POEM

The UCI Health Chao Digestive Health Institute is the only center in Orange County with extensive expertise in performing the POEM procedure — and now the Z-POEM procedure. Z-POEM stands for peroral endoscopic myotomy for Zenker’s diverticulum.

We take a carefully tailored approach to treat Zenker's using Z-POEM. By cutting the cricopharyngeus muscle, we transform the diverticulum into a slide instead of a pouch. This allows food to smoothly move from the throat into the esophagus.

A multidisciplinary approach

At the Chao Digestive Health Institute, our expert multidisciplinary team combines advanced techniques and personalized care. They provide the best possible outcomes for your health and recovery.

You can expect to work with ENT specialists and interventional gastroenterologists. Their collaborative expertise ensures a minimally invasive, safe procedure with a low risk of complications, providing you with quick, potentially life-changing results.

Frequently asked questions

What causes Zenker's diverticulum?

Zenker's diverticulum happens when there’s increased pressure in the throat due to a stiffening of the upper esophageal sphincter. This pressure weakens a specific area of the throat wall, leading to the formation of a pouch that traps food.

How does the Z-POEM procedure work?

During the Z-POEM procedure, your esophageal specialist makes a tiny incision to expose the muscle causing the blockage. They then create two small tunnels to fully access and cut the muscle, ensuring it’s completely divided. Finally, the opening is closed with small clips, allowing food to easily pass into your esophagus once the area heals.

Benefits of Z-POEM

Minimally invasive: Z-POEM is performed endoscopically with no need for large incisions, which reduces recovery time.

Quick recovery: Most patients experience significant symptom improvement within hours.

Lower risk: Our modified technique reduces the chance of complications like leaks.

Faster results: You can return to normal swallowing shortly after the procedure.

What to expect with Z-POEM

Before your Z-POEM procedure, your doctor will provide instructions on how to prepare, including fasting for a certain period. 

The procedure is minimally invasive, taking about 30 to 45 minutes. After the procedure, you'll stay overnight for observation. 

What happens after my Z-POEM?

The day after your Z-POEM, a contrast X-ray will ensure everything is healing properly before discharge.

Most patients feel significant relief within hours and can resume normal swallowing soon after. You'll receive dietary guidelines and follow-up care instructions, with the clips naturally falling out as you heal. 

Recovery is quick, with minimal discomfort.

Why choose UCI Health for Z-POEM

Comprehensive, multidisciplinary teams

At UCI Health, you’ll work with a team of experts dedicated to providing the best care for your condition. As part of the Chao Digestive Health Institute, our team includes specialists in gastroenterology, ENT, and more, working together to offer you personalized treatment tailored to your needs. This collaboration ensures that you receive the most advanced and comprehensive care available.

Our physicians use minimally invasive endoscopic techniques for a wide range of other gastrointestinal procedures.

Less invasive techniques lower the risks of infection or other complications and speed your recovery for Z-POEM and other procedures.

Leading-edge care with proven expertise

As the only academic medical center in Orange County, UCI Health is at the forefront of medical research and innovation. This means you benefit from the latest treatments, innovative technology and access to clinical trials, ensuring you get the most effective care.