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Updated: Jun 27, 2026

Retroperitoneal Laparoscopic Debridement and Drainage for Pancreatic Abscess
Published on: March 15, 2024
Clinical outcomes of complicated diverticulitis managed nonoperatively
R Scott Nelson1, B Mark Ewing, Timothy J Wengert
1Colon and Rectal Surgery, Inc, Omaha, NE, USA. warmerinne@cox.net
Background:
Surgical resection is typically recommended for patients with computed tomography (CT)-confirmed complicated diverticulitis. This study was designed to assess outcomes of patients with complicated diverticulitis managed nonoperatively.
Methods:
A retrospective study covering 14 years evaluated patients with complicated diverticulitis diagnosed by CT scan. Patient outcomes, including recurrence and need for operations, were reviewed.
Results:
Of 256 patients identified, 99 were managed nonoperatively. Forty-six of the 99 patients had a recurrent episode of diverticulitis. Of these 46 patients, 20 underwent a sigmoid colon resection, with only 1 patient requiring a colostomy for obstruction. None of these recurrences resulted in the need for emergency resection.
Conclusions:
Surgical treatment should play an important role in the management of patients with complicated diverticulitis because of the high risk of recurrence. However, nonoperative management may be appropriate in a select population if age or medical comorbidities preclude a safe operation since the need for emergency operation is unlikely.
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