Diverticulosis is a weakening of the colon wall caused by irregular contraction of the colon. This is most often caused by a low-fiber and high-fat diet, forcing the colon to work harder than necessary to propel its contents forward. The strenuous contractions create small pouch-like bulges in the wall of the colon that can become infected, resulting in diverticulitis. Symptoms typically include left lower abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and changes in bowel habits such as constipation or diarrhea. Mild cases are often managed with antibiotics, while severe or recurrent cases may require surgical intervention.

Surgery for diverticulitis is typically recommended for complicated cases, including perforation, abscess, fistula formation, or bowel obstruction, or for patients with recurrent episodes that significantly affect their quality of life. Dr. Patil will evaluate your specific history and imaging to determine with you whether surgery is indicated.

Both are forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but they differ in location and pattern. Ulcerative colitis affects only the colon and rectum with continuous inflammation of the mucosal lining. Crohn's disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from mouth to anus, often in a patchy, transmural pattern. Treatment strategies and surgical options differ significantly between the two conditions.

Surgery for IBD is recommended when medical management is insufficient to control symptoms, when complications, or when medications have become intolerable. Any consideration for surgery will be based on extensive collaboration between Dr. Patil and your gastroenterologist. A specific surgical approach will then be tailored to you.