Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches (diverticula) in the colon become inflamed or infected. Many cases are managed without surgery, but some patients need an operation. Understanding the condition helps you and your care team make informed decisions.
What is diverticular disease?
Diverticula are small outpouchings that can form in the wall of the colon. They become more common with age and are often linked to low-fiber diets and other lifestyle factors. When these pouches are present without inflammation, the condition is called diverticulosis. When they become inflamed or infected, it is diverticulitis.
Common symptoms
- Abdominal pain — often persistent, frequently on the left side in Western patients
- Change in bowel habits — constipation, diarrhea, or both
- Fever or chills — especially with more significant infection
- Nausea, bloating, or a feeling of fullness
How is it treated?
Uncomplicated diverticulitis is often treated with rest, diet modification, and sometimes antibiotics, depending on severity and overall health. Complicated disease (abscess, perforation, fistula, or obstruction) may require hospital care, drainage, or surgery.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery may be recommended for:
- Complicated diverticulitis (perforation, large abscess, fistula, obstruction)
- Repeated attacks that affect quality of life
- Inability to rule out other serious conditions
- Selected elective cases after careful discussion of risks and benefits
The most common operation is removal of the affected segment of colon (often the sigmoid) with reconnection of the healthy ends when safe. In emergency settings, a temporary colostomy is sometimes required.