Diverticular Disease

Illustration showing diverticular disease in the colon.

What is diverticulosis?

Diverticulosis means there are a number of small ‘pockets’ or outpouchings in your colon. These usually occur on the left side of your colon and can sometimes lead to pain and complications, however the majority of all patients do not need any specific treatment.

What is diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis refers to an episode of active inflammation caused by blockage of one or some of the pockets which can range from some mild discomfort through to major complications like perforation, abscess formation, or complete blockage of the bowel.

What causes diverticulosis?

The cause of diverticulosis is not clear, with multiple genetic and environmental factors that likely contribute to its development. It is more commonly seen in Western populations that lead a sedentary lifestyle with a low fibre diet, and can run in families. It is very common in Australians, with one-third over the age of 45 years and two-thirds over the age of 85 years having evidence of diverticular disease at colonoscopy. There are a number of theories of how the outpouchings develop, but there is no clear evidence that any particular diet or foods cause the outpouchings or contribute to a specific attack of diverticulitis.

How do you treat diverticular disease?

Surgery to remove the affected segment can be helpful. Often this can be done as an elective or planned procedure due to ongoing pain, repeated bouts of inflammation, or complications that develop. Occasionally emergency surgery is required to manage perforation or obstruction. If the surgery can be managed in a planned way it is technically easier to offer a laparoscopic or keyhole approach and minimise your chance of needing to have a temporary stoma bag. If emergency surgery is required, this can be done via a laparoscopic approach but it is more challenging and open surgery is more likely, as is the need to have a temporary stoma.

If you do not suffer any significant or serious symptoms because of your diverticular disease you may not need to have any further treatment at all. Your surgeon will discuss the best plan for your diverticular disease with you at the time of your appointment.