Journal of clinical gastroenterology
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The term "diverticulitis" indicates the inflammation of a diverticulum or diverticula, which is accompanied by detectable or microscopical perforation. Diverticulitis is a common condition with an estimated incidence of 25%. At present, elective sigmoid resection is recommended after 2 episodes of uncomplicated diverticulitis to prevent the serious complications of recurrent colonic diverticulitis. ⋯ The data to support this assumption are based on only a few small studies. Advances in diagnostic modalities, medical therapy, and surgical techniques over the past 2 decades have changed both the management and outcomes of diverticulitis. Many authors have shown that patients treated nonoperatively have a low risk of recurrent disease and would be expected to do well without elective colectomy.