Best Doctor List Near You for Diverticulectomy in Westmoreland

Diverticulectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of one or more diverticula, which are small, bulging pouches that can form in the wall of the colon or other parts of the digestive tract. These pouches, known as diverticula, can develop due to increased pressure in the colon, often associated with a low-fiber diet and aging. When diverticula become inflamed or infected, a condition called diverticulitis occurs, which can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and changes in bowel habits. If diverticulitis is severe or recurrent, or if complications such as abscesses, perforations, or bleeding occur, a diverticulectomy may be necessary to remove the affected diverticula and alleviate symptoms. The procedure can be performed either through open surgery with a larger abdominal incision or using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques, which involve smaller incisions and specialized instruments. During the surgery, the surgeon identifies and removes the diverticula and may also perform a bowel resection if there is significant damage to the surrounding colon. Complications associated with diverticulectomy can include infection, bleeding, and anastomotic leak, where the connection between bowel segments fails to heal properly. There is also a risk of bowel obstruction or injury to nearby organs. Postoperative issues may involve pain, changes in bowel function, or prolonged recovery. Despite these risks, diverticulectomy can effectively treat severe diverticulitis and prevent further complications, improving the patient's overall health and quality of life.