High-Yield Concepts in Diverticular Diseases (Gastrointestinal Diseases)

Question 1

True Diverticulum

Answer 1

Saclike herniation of entire bowel wall

Question 2

False Diverticulum (Pseudodiverticulum)

Answer 2

Only a protrusion of the mucosa through the muscularis propria of the colon (where the vasa recti penetrates)

Question 3

Diverticulitis

Answer 3

Inflammation of a diverticulum

Question 4

Air-fluid level in the LLQ on plain abdominal film

Answer 4

Giant diverticulum of the sigmoid colon

Question 5

Hinchey Classification System

Answer 5

Staging system for predicting outcomes after surgery for perforated diverticulitis

Question 6

Diagnosis of Diverticulitis is best Made with these CT findings

Answer 6

Sigmoid diverticula
Thickened colonic wall >4 mm
Inflammation within the pericolic fat ± the collection of contrast material or fluid

Question 7

Safety window for barium enema or colonoscopy

Answer 7

6 weeks after an attack of diverticular disease

should not be performed in acute setting due to higher risk of perforation

Question 8

Best management for massive Diverticular Bleeding in a stable patient

Answer 8

Angiography ± coiling (if patient unstable or has had a 6-unit bleed within 24 hours, emergent surgery should be performed)

Question 9

Best management for asymptomatic Diverticular Disease

Answer 9

Diet alterations

Question 10

Initial treatment for symptomatic Uncomplicated Diverticular Disease

Answer 10

Antibiotics and bowel rest