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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2021; 34(02): 086-090
DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1716699
Review Article

Evaluation and Medical Management of Uncomplicated Diverticulitis

Sean J. Langenfeld
1   Department of Surgery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
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Abstract

Uncomplicated diverticulitis is common, and its evaluation and treatment have evolved over time. Most patients present in a nontoxic manner with localized pain, leukocytosis, and reliable findings on computed tomography (CT). Healthy and stable patients are typically treated in the outpatient setting with very high rates of success. Recently, the necessity of antibiotic therapy has come into question, and several alternative agents have emerged, with the jury still out on their relative roles in diverticular disease. Currently, colonoscopy is still recommended after the resolution of an index episode of uncomplicated diverticulitis, and recurrence rates remain low. Several diet and lifestyle modifications have been shown to impact the rates of diverticulitis recurrence.

Keywords

uncomplicated diverticulitis - diverticulitis - medical management - mesalamine - probiotics

Disclosures

The author has no relevant financial disclosures.




Publication History

Article published online:
24 February 2021

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