What surgery cures diverticulitis?

Colon resection This is the most common type of surgery for diverticulitis. A surgeon cuts into the colon, removes the damaged pockets or pouches, then reattaches the remaining segments of the colon. The surgeon may reattach the colon to the rectum or create a colostomy.

Can diverticulitis be cured with surgery?

The only way to cure diverticulitis is with surgery. You may need surgery for diverticulitis when you have: Complications (obstruction, punctured colon wall, severe abscess) Repeated episodes of uncomplicated diverticulitis.

How often is surgery needed for diverticulitis?

Historically, the indications for elective surgery were relatively consistent. It was recommended that patients undergo elective resection after two documented attacks of uncomplicated diverticulitis or after one attack of complicated diverticulitis in which the patient did not require emergent surgery.

Can diverticulitis return after surgery?

Historically, recurrence of diverticulitis after surgery has been in the range of 7–11% with an estimated risk of recurrence over a 15-year period of 16% [3]. Recent data from several observational studies revealed recurrence rates of 10–35% after a first episode of uncomplicated diverticulitis [2, 5, 7].

What happens if diverticulitis keeps coming back?

Surgery for recurring and complicated diverticulitis You may need surgery if your: Recurrences continue despite antibiotics or lifestyle changes. Symptoms are severe, including formation of a fistula, an abscess, or a perforation. Bowel is obstructed.

How many hours does diverticulitis surgery take?

The operation is performed under a general anaesthetic and usually takes 2 to 3 hours. Your surgeon will remove part of your colon. Your surgeon will usually join the ends of your bowel back together inside your abdomen.

How long does it take to heal from diverticulitis surgery?

In 4 to 8 weeks you will be recovered from surgery and back on a regular diet, but it is important to keep your colon healthy. This includes eating plenty of high-fiber fruits, vegetables, and whole grains throughout the day. Also, drink plenty of liquids such as water and juice.

Why do I keep getting diverticulitis?

While the cause of diverticular diseases is unknown, several studies have associated the conditions with low fiber intake, excessive alcohol use, anti-inflammatory medications, steroids, obesity, lack of exercise, and smoking.

Can you have surgery twice for diverticulitis?

About 30 to 40 percent of people who have diverticulitis once will never develop it again. For those who have subsequent episodes, particularly two or more, surgery is often required to remove the affected portion of the colon.

Is there an elective surgery for diverticulitis in older adults?

Elective Surgery for Diverticulitis in Older Adults. The decision about whether to have elective surgery for diverticulitis should be individualized, based on risk of recurrence, surgical morbidity, ongoing symptoms, disease complexity and operative risk.

How is colorectal surgery used to treat diverticulitis?

Colorectal surgery can also be performed as an elective procedure to prevent recurrent episodes of diverticulitis. Your doctor can explain the benefits and risks of this option. Elective surgery is usually a minimally invasive procedure, and surgeons use either traditional laparoscopy or robotic-assisted laparoscopy.

What is sigmoidectomy for diverticulitis?

If you’ve had two or three episodes of diverticulitis, your doctor may recommend an elective procedure called sigmoidectomy, in which the affected part of the colon—called the sigmoid colon—is removed to help prevent a recurrence. Before choosing elective surgery, you and your doctor discuss the benefits and risks.

Can Mayo Clinic help with diverticulitis?

You will also receive emails from Mayo Clinic on the latest health news, research, and care. Explore Mayo Clinic studies testing new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition. Some experts suspect that people who develop diverticulitis may not have enough good bacteria in their colons.