diverticulosis and diverticular disease

Question 1

diverticulosis is

Answer 1

the presence of diverticula

Question 2

what are diverticula

Answer 2

herniation of the colonic mucosa thought to form as a result of high intraluminal pressure, which forces the mucosa through the muscle layer

Question 3

intraluminal pressure may be increased by

Answer 3

muscular contraction required to propel less bulky stools in people consuming a low fibre diet

Question 4

diverticular disease is when

Answer 4

diverticulosis becomes symptomatic

Question 5

diverticular disease includes

Answer 5

diverticulitis
local perforation and abscess formation
generalised perforation and peritonitis
obstruction due to strictures
fistulas
diverticular bleeding

Question 6

what is diverticular bleeding

Answer 6

common cause of large volume lower GI bleeding
all patients should be assessed to determine extent of bleeding and haemodynamic stability

Question 7

how do you manage diverticular bleeding

Answer 7

stops spontaneously often
if it does not stop, site may need to be localised with colonoscopy or CTA
haemostasis may be achieved with direct endoscopic techniques during colonoscopy
urgent surgery may be needed