Diverticular disease today. Evidence review

Abstract

The diverticular disease is a prevalent condition with a great economic and medical repercussion. Despite the multiple guidelines available to protocolize diagnosis and treatment, there is not unanimi-ty in its management. We have carried out an updated review with the aim of analyzing new studies of the disease, to manage it properly and to carry out the most appropriate treatment at each time. Diverticular disease has an inherited component (40%) and it is directly related to low fiber diet, obesity, consumption of red meat, inactivity, alcohol and NSAIDs. Due to its nonspecific symptoms, it is difficult to make a differential diagnosis. Ultrasound and abdominal CT are appropriate methods for diagnosis and early colonoscopy is recommended (4th-8th week) after acute symptoms. The most followed classification is the Hinchey Score. There is no clear evidence of the superiority of any drug in the treatment of symptomatic diverticulosis. Acute uncomplicated diverticulitis can be managed on an outpatient and the use of antibiotics is not necessary in patients without risk factors. Conservative management tends to be used in complicated diverticulitis, although in Hinchey III and IV the treatment is surgical, recommending resection of the affected area and, if possible, anastomosis with or without a protective stoma. Washing and draining is not recommended in the Hinchey III. Treatment must be agreed on an individual basis since surgical treatment is not recommended due to the number of recurrences or the age of the patient.