Medical and surgical management of diverticular disease, from flare-ups to complications.
Diverticulitis is inflammation or infection of small pouches (diverticula) that can form in the wall of the colon, particularly on the left side. Most flare-ups are managed medically, but recurrent or complicated diverticulitis — with abscess, perforation, or stricture — may need surgery. Dr. Krishna Pada Saha manages the full spectrum, favouring a laparoscopic approach when surgery becomes necessary.
Diverticulitis exists on a spectrum — from a mild, uncomplicated flare-up that settles with antibiotics and rest, to a complicated episode involving an abscess, perforation, fistula, or narrowing (stricture) of the bowel that genuinely needs surgery. Dr. Saha uses CT imaging during an acute episode to accurately classify its severity, which guides whether medical management, percutaneous drainage of an abscess, or surgery is the right next step — and for patients with recurrent attacks, he discusses elective laparoscopic resection to prevent further episodes.
Recognising these early can help you seek timely, effective treatment.
Every patient is different — Dr. Saha recommends the safest, least invasive option that will give lasting results.
A clear, step-by-step path from consultation to full recovery.
A detailed history and clinical examination to accurately assess your condition and rule out other anorectal issues.
Based on the severity and your overall health, Dr. Saha recommends the most appropriate — and least invasive — treatment path.
The procedure is performed under local, spinal or general anaesthesia as appropriate, most often on a day-care basis.
Uncomplicated flare-ups typically settle with medical treatment within days; surgical patients follow a staged recovery similar to other laparoscopic colorectal procedures.
Severity is confirmed on imaging before deciding between medical and surgical management.
Minimally invasive surgery for recurrent or complicated diverticulitis wherever safe.
Coordinated care for perforation, abscess or stricture, including drainage procedures when appropriate.
Practical fibre and lifestyle advice to reduce the chance of future flare-ups.
No — most flare-ups settle with antibiotics, bowel rest and dietary modification; surgery is reserved for recurrent, complicated or severe cases.
Persistent fever, worsening abdominal pain, or signs of perforation or abscess need urgent evaluation.
Recurrence is possible, which is why dietary fibre and lifestyle changes are emphasised even after a flare-up settles.
Most cases are managed without a stoma; a temporary stoma is used only in specific complicated or emergency situations.
A high-fibre diet, adequate hydration, regular activity and not smoking all help reduce the chance of further flare-ups, though some patients still have recurrent episodes.
A stricture causing blockage typically needs surgical resection of the affected segment, which Dr. Saha will discuss in detail based on your imaging and symptoms.
Share your symptoms with our team and get guidance on the right next step.
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