"Pharyngocoeles can arise from two areas of weakness on the lateral wall of the pharynx 4,5."
"Pharyngocoeles may be seen on a transverse sonogram at the level of the ventricular folds 8 as a hyperechoic gas pocket which enlarges during a Valsalva manoeuvre 8. In pharyngoceles, gas communicates with piriform sinuses distinguishing it from laryngoceles which have gas communicating with laryngeal saccules 8. Identification of pharyngoceles on ultrasound can be difficult in the presence of thyroid calcification 8,9."
"Pharyngocoeles are best identified on the frontal barium swallow x-ray during a Valsalva manoeuvre 2 before and after contrast administration. In bilateral pharyngoceles, a "bullfrog appearance" can be appreciated on frontal cervical x-rays 1."
"Pharyngoceles are rare and more often unilateral than bilateral 2-4. It is commonly associated with occupational exposure to increased intra-pharyngeal pressure 1,3 such as glass blowing or playing musical woodwind/brass instruments. It occurs more frequently in males than in females and usually arises during the fifth and sixth decades of life 2,4,5."
"Zenker diverticulum"
Expected headings
"Plain radiograph / fluoroscopy"