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In cricopharyngeal incoordination, the cricopharyngeal muscle (the upper esophageal sphincter) is uncoordinated. It can cause a Zenker's diverticulum (see Esophageal and Swallowing Disorders: Esophageal Diverticula). Repeated aspiration of material from the diverticulum can lead to chronic lung disease. The condition can be treated by surgical section of the cricopharyngeal muscle.

Last full review/revision October 2007 by Michael C. DiMarino, MD

Content last modified October 2007