Managing Diverticulitis: When Surgery Becomes Necessary
Diverticulitis is a painful and potentially serious condition that affects the colon. While many people respond well to lifestyle changes and medical management, surgery is sometimes necessary—especially when complications or recurrent episodes occur.
At Suncoast Surgical Associates, our board-certified surgeons provide expert evaluation and advanced surgical options for diverticulitis, including laparoscopic and minimally invasive procedures tailored to each patient.
What Is Diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches (diverticula) in the colon become inflamed or infected. This can lead to symptoms such as:
Lower abdominal pain (especially on the left side)
Fever and chills
Nausea or vomiting
Changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea)
While most cases are uncomplicated and respond well to rest and antibiotics, more severe or recurrent cases may require surgical treatment (Glass et al., 2020).
When Is Surgery for Diverticulitis Necessary?
Surgery is generally considered in the following scenarios:
1. Recurrent Attacks
If a patient has multiple episodes of diverticulitis, especially within a short period, elective surgery may be advised to prevent complications (Comparato & Di Mario, 2008).
2. Complications
Surgical intervention becomes urgent if the condition causes:
Abscesses
Fistulas
Perforation (hole in the colon wall)
Bowel obstructions
Peritonitis (infection of the abdominal cavity)
These complications require prompt surgery to prevent sepsis and long-term damage (Rocha et al., 2022).
3. Failure of Medical Treatment
If symptoms persist or worsen despite antibiotics and dietary changes, surgery may be the next best step for symptom relief and long-term prevention (Aydin & Remzi, 2004).
Surgical Options at Suncoast Surgical Associates
At Suncoast Surgical Associates, we offer:
Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic Surgery: Smaller incisions, faster recovery, and less post-operative pain.
Colon Resection (Colectomy): Removal of the affected section of the colon with or without reconnection.
Colostomy (if needed): In severe cases, a temporary or permanent colostomy may be performed to allow healing.
Our surgeons are skilled in robotic-assisted techniques and enhanced recovery protocols, ensuring a safe and efficient surgical experience for our patients.
Preventing Future Episodes
After recovery, we recommend:
Increasing dietary fiber intake
Maintaining a healthy weight
Avoiding smoking and NSAIDs
Staying active
These strategies can lower your risk of recurrence and help protect long-term colon health.
Why Choose Suncoast Surgical Associates?
Our team offers:
Decades of experience in general and colorectal surgery
Personalized care plans tailored to your condition
Access to state-of-the-art surgical facilities
Coordinated follow-up for recovery and prevention
If you're struggling with ongoing diverticulitis symptoms or have been told surgery might be necessary, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Works Cited
Aydin, H., & Remzi, F. (2004). Diverticulitis: when and how to operate? Digestive and Liver Disease, 36(7), 435–445. link
Comparato, G., & Di Mario, F. (2008). Recurrent Diverticulitis. Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, 42, 1130–1134. link
Glass, C. A., Malone, A., & Eapen, D. (2020). Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis. Family Practice Guidelines. link
Rocha, K. N. S., Mendonça, N. T., Matos, J. O., Vila Nova, A. S., & Silva, E. R. (2022). Surgical treatment of acute colonic diverticulitis. Brazilian Journal of Health Review. link