Diverticulitis Management
Follow Up
Re-evaluation of the patient should be done after resolution of an attack of acute diverticulitis
- Appropriate exams 6 weeks after recovery include colonoscopy or a combination of flexible sigmoidoscopy & barium enema
- Establishes extent of disease & rules out polyps or carcinoma
- Diverticulitis may result in formation of strictures which may have a carcinoma-like appearance & may need to be biopsied
- Patient should be instructed to gradually resume a high-fiber diet
- Long-term fiber supplementation may reduce recurrence of attacks
- Surgery may be needed for recurrent attacks of diverticulitis
- Elective surgery is not needed for patients responsive to medical treatment & not routinely recommended for either uncomplicated or complicated diverticulitis in young patients
- Advise patients to avoid using non-Aspirin nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)