Our Summary

This study looked at the long-term effects of two types of emergency surgeries for a severe intestinal condition called perforated diverticulitis. Researchers asked patients from across Sweden who had these surgeries between 2016 and 2018 to fill out a detailed survey 2-3 years later.

Of the 499 people who were eligible to participate, 209 completed the survey and were included in the study. The researchers found that whether patients had a less invasive surgery (laparoscopic lavage) or a more invasive surgery (resection), they reported similar levels of distress related to bowel or stoma dysfunction. However, the survey showed that bowel dysfunction was more common for those who had the less invasive surgery, while having a stoma (an artificial opening for waste removal) was more common among those who had the more invasive surgery.

The researchers concluded that patients can experience long-term discomfort and difficulties after having emergency surgery for perforated diverticulitis, no matter which surgical technique is used. The authors suggested that regular medical follow-ups could benefit these patients. The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov.

FAQs

  1. What are the two types of emergency surgeries for perforated diverticulitis discussed in the study?
  2. What were the long-term effects of these surgeries on the patients who participated in the survey?
  3. Did the research suggest any post-surgery care or follow-up for patients who undergo surgery for perforated diverticulitis?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about diverticulitis surgery is to be prepared for potential long-term discomfort and difficulties, regardless of the type of surgery performed. Regular medical follow-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider can help manage any ongoing issues related to bowel or stoma dysfunction. It is important to stay informed and proactive in your post-surgery care to ensure the best possible outcome.

Suitable For

Patients with severe diverticulitis that has perforated and requires emergency surgery are typically recommended for surgery. In this study, patients who had emergency surgery for perforated diverticulitis experienced long-term discomfort and difficulties, regardless of whether they had a less invasive surgery (laparoscopic lavage) or a more invasive surgery (resection). Regular medical follow-ups are recommended for these patients to monitor and address any ongoing issues related to bowel or stoma dysfunction.

Timeline

Before diverticulitis surgery:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of diverticulitis such as abdominal pain, bloating, fever, and changes in bowel habits.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as CT scans or colonoscopies to confirm the diagnosis of diverticulitis.
  3. Treatment for diverticulitis may include antibiotics, pain medication, and dietary changes to manage symptoms.
  4. If the diverticulitis is severe or recurrent, surgery may be recommended as a last resort.

After diverticulitis surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes either laparoscopic lavage or resection surgery to treat the diverticulitis.
  2. Recovery from surgery may involve a hospital stay, pain management, and gradually reintroducing food and physical activity.
  3. Patients may experience physical discomfort, bowel dysfunction, and stoma-related issues in the long-term after surgery.
  4. Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers may be recommended to monitor and address any ongoing symptoms or complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and benefits of the surgery for diverticulitis?
  2. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care for this surgery?
  3. Will I need to have a stoma after the surgery, and if so, is it temporary or permanent?
  4. What are the potential long-term effects or complications of the surgery?
  5. How will this surgery affect my bowel function and quality of life?
  6. Are there alternative treatment options for diverticulitis that I should consider?
  7. How often will I need to follow-up with you or a specialist after the surgery?
  8. Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes I should make before or after the surgery to improve my outcomes?
  9. What type of support or resources are available for patients recovering from diverticulitis surgery?
  10. Can you provide me with more information or resources to help me better understand the surgery and its potential outcomes?

Reference

Authors: Samuelsson A, Bock D, Prytz M, Block M, Ehrencrona C, Wedin A, Angenete E, Haglind E. Journal: World J Surg. 2023 Jun;47(6):1570-1582. doi: 10.1007/s00268-023-06961-2. Epub 2023 Mar 1. PMID: 36856835