Fact 6: Surgical Intervention – A Possible Route
The idea of surgery can send shivers down anyone’s spine. It’s invasive, it’s significant, and it brings forth a flurry of what-ifs. In the realm of diverticulitis, surgical intervention stands as a potent weapon—but it’s not the first line of defense.
To begin with, it’s pivotal to recognize when surgery comes into play. It’s not for every Tom, Dick, or Harry with diverticulitis. Surgery enters the scene when conventional treatments throw their hands up, particularly for those with recurrent episodes or complications like fistulas or abscesses.
So, what does the procedure entail? There are two primary routes. The first is primary bowel resection. In layman’s terms, the surgeon plays a game of cut and connect. The affected portion of the colon is removed, and then the remaining parts are reconnected. It’s like removing a problematic segment of a train track and then ensuring the train can continue its journey smoothly.
But sometimes, things are a tad more complex, leading to the second type: bowel resection with colostomy. Here, the upper part of the colon is connected to an opening in the abdomen. This isn’t just for show; it allows waste to exit the body into a colostomy bag. It’s more intensive, but in some cases, it’s the need of the hour. (6)
