Which imaging method is commonly used to diagnose Zenker's diverticulum?

Barium swallow is the preferred imaging method for diagnosing Zenker's diverticulum. This technique involves the patient swallowing a contrast material (barium), which allows for clear visualization of the pharyngeal and esophageal regions on X-ray. During the procedure, the barium outlines the contours of the esophagus and can reveal the presence of the diverticulum, typically found at the cervical esophagus.

Zenker's diverticulum is an esophageal condition that results in the formation of a pouch due to increased pressure during swallowing, which leads to the herniation of tissue. The barium swallow specifically highlights the diverticulum and provides valuable information about its size and relation to other structures. Because it focuses on the function and the anatomy of the swallowing process, this method is particularly effective for visualization of upper esophageal conditions like Zenker's diverticulum.

Other imaging modalities, while useful in various contexts, do not provide the same level of detail for diagnosing this specific condition. A CT scan can be helpful for assessing further complications or adjacent anatomical structures, but it is not the first choice for primary diagnosis. Ultrasound is not typically used for diagnosing diverticula in the esophagus, as it is better suited for visualizing soft tissue structures rather than hollow