Diverticulitis - Conservative Therapy

Background: Diverticulitis due to diverticulosis of the colon is a common clinical problem with a high morbidity and socio-economic consequences. Frequent clinical signs are flatulence, abdominal pain, stool problems which may often be misinterpreted as the symptoms of an irritable bowel or a colitis. Accordingly, the diagnostic work-up must be adequate to allow for the stage-adapted planning and performance of the therapy. Material and Methods: The following questions will be addressed in this review: What do we need to clarify diagnosis? Which antibiotics should be used? What is the best conservative approach for treatment? Results and Conclusions: Basic conservative therapy consists of systemic antibiosis which can be extended by a topical antibiosis, and administration of aspirin as well as probiotics. The indications for a specific therapy is made on an individual basis accoridng to stage (Hansen and Stock). Above all, a "team approach" and close communication between gastroenterologists and surgeons are mandatory for adequate treatment of these patients.