Open AccessColonoscopic management of diverticular disease
Author(s) -
M. Phillip Fejleh,
James H. Tabibian
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
world journal of gastrointestinal endoscopy
Language(s) - Uncategorized
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 1948-5190
DOI - 10.4253/wjge.v12.i2.53
Subject(s) - diverticulosis , diverticular disease , medicine , colonoscopy , diverticulitis , malignancy , disease , general surgery , inflammatory bowel disease , gastroenterology , colorectal cancer , cancer
Diverticula are the most common incidental finding during routine colonoscopy, and their prevalence increases with patient age. The term "diverticular disease" encompasses the range of clinical manifestations and complications that can occur with colonic diverticula, including diverticular bleeding, diverticulitis-associated strictures, and acute diverticulitis. Colonoscopy is a vital tool in the diagnosis and management of diverticular disease and can be useful in a variety of regards. In this editorial, we concisely delineate the current approach to and practices in colonoscopic management of diverticular disease. In particular, we discuss treatment options for diverticular bleeding, propose consideration of colonic stenting as a bridge to surgery in patients with diverticulitis-associated strictures, and the need for diagnostic colonoscopy following an episode of acute diverticulitis in order to rule out underlying conditions such as colonic malignancy or inflammatory bowel disease. In addition, we offer practical tips for performing safe and successful colonoscopy in patients with dense diverticulosis coli.