Overview
Diverticulosis refers to the presence of outpouchings (diverticula) in the intestinal wall. Ileal diverticulosis specifically involves these outpouchings in the ileum, the final section of the small intestine. Unlike diverticulitis, diverticulosis itself is typically asymptomatic and discovered incidentally.Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually incidental, often found during imaging for other conditions 1.
Imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT) or ultrasound can confirm the presence of diverticula 1.Management
Diverticulosis without inflammation (diverticulitis) is generally asymptomatic and requires no specific treatment 1.
Management focuses on preventing complications like diverticulitis 1.Special Populations
Studies predominantly excluded patients with comorbidity or immunosuppression 1.
Exclusion criteria also included inability to tolerate oral intake or lack of an adequate social network 1.Key Recommendations
Outpatient treatment of uncomplicated diverticulitis is a safe option for most patients, with low readmission rates and very low complication rates 1.
Outpatient treatment of uncomplicated diverticulitis results in substantial healthcare cost savings 1.
Patients with comorbidities, immunosuppression, inability to tolerate oral intake, or lack of social support were typically excluded from outpatient treatment studies 1.References
1 van Dijk ST, Bos K, de Boer MGJ, Draaisma WA, van Enst WA, Felt RJF et al.. A systematic review and meta-analysis of outpatient treatment for acute diverticulitis. International journal of colorectal disease 2018. link