Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) Practice Test

Which condition is characterized by an outpouching of the esophagus?

1. Diverticulitis

2. Zenker's diverticulum

3. Achalasia

4. Gastroesophageal reflux disease

The correct answer is: Zenker's diverticulum

Zenker's diverticulum is the condition characterized by an outpouching of the esophagus. This condition specifically involves an area of weakness in the muscular wall of the esophagus, often located just above the upper esophageal sphincter. As a result, a sac-like protrusion can form, which collects food and saliva, leading to symptoms such as dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), regurgitation, and bad breath from stagnant food. In contrast, diverticulitis is primarily associated with the outpouching effect in the colon, not the esophagus. Achalasia involves a failure of the lower esophageal sphincter to relax, leading to difficulties in swallowing and potential esophageal dilation, but it does not involve an outpouching. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is characterized by the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn, but it does not involve an anatomical outpouching. Thus, Zenker's diverticulum is the unique condition that accurately describes the outpouching of the esophagus.