colon surgery
Colon surgery, also known as colectomy, may be necessary for patients with persistent episodes of diverticulitis, colon cancer or other disease of the colon.
Colon Surgery for Diverticulitis:
Understanding, Managing, and When Surgery is Needed
Diverticulitis is a common condition affecting the colon, and understanding it is key to managing symptoms and knowing when surgical intervention may be required. This webpage will explore what diverticulitis is, how it develops, how lifestyle changes can help manage it, and when surgery becomes necessary.
What is Diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis is an inflammatory condition that occurs when small pouches, known as diverticula, in the walls of the colon become infected or inflamed. These pouches can form when weak spots in the colon's muscular wall bulge outward, creating pockets that can trap food and waste. When these diverticula become infected, it leads to diverticulitis—a painful and potentially serious condition that can cause symptoms like:
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Abdominal pain, especially in the lower left side
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Fever and chills
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Nausea and vomiting
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Bloating or changes in bowel habits
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While diverticulitis is common, it is manageable with appropriate treatment.
How Does Diverticulitis Happen?
Diverticulitis begins when diverticula—small, balloon-like pouches—form in the colon wall. Over time, these pouches can become inflamed, infected, or irritated. Several factors can contribute to the development of diverticulitis, including:
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Low-fiber diet: A diet low in fiber can cause constipation, increasing the pressure within the colon and leading to the formation of diverticula.
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Aging: The risk of diverticulitis increases with age, as the colon becomes weaker and more prone to developing diverticula.
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Genetics: Family history may also play a role in the development of diverticulitis.
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Obesity and lack of physical activity: These factors can contribute to constipation and pressure on the colon.​
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While the condition is more common in older adults, it can affect younger people as well, especially those with a family history or unhealthy lifestyle habits.
Managing Diverticulitis with Lifestyle Changes
In many cases, diverticulitis can be managed or even prevented with healthy lifestyle changes. Here are some steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing diverticulitis or reduce flare-ups:
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Increase Fiber Intake
A high-fiber diet helps prevent constipation and reduces pressure on the colon. Foods rich in fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. -
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps prevent constipation and keeps the digestive system functioning smoothly. -
Exercise Regularly
Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and promotes normal bowel function, reducing the risk of diverticula formation. -
Avoid Smoking
Smoking can increase the risk of complications from diverticulitis, so quitting is a critical part of managing the condition. -
Control Your Weight
Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce abdominal pressure and lower the risk of developing diverticulitis. -
Limit Processed Foods
Diets high in red meats and processed foods may increase the risk of diverticulitis. Focus on a balanced, whole-foods diet to support colon health.
When is Surgery Needed for Diverticulitis?
While most cases of diverticulitis can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication, surgery may be required if the condition becomes severe or recurrent. Indications for colon surgery for diverticulitis include:
Recurrent Diverticulitis
If you experience multiple episodes of diverticulitis, especially with worsening symptoms, surgery may be recommended to prevent future complications.
Complicated Diverticulitis
Complications such as abscesses, perforations, or fistulas (abnormal connections between organs) can develop in severe cases of diverticulitis. These complications may require surgery to repair.
Non-Responsive to Treatment
If diverticulitis does not improve with antibiotics or other treatments, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected portion of the colon.
Severe Bleeding
In rare cases, diverticulitis can cause significant bleeding that does not stop with conservative treatment, requiring surgical intervention.
