Diverticulitis is a common gastrointestinal condition that can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Characterized by the inflammation or infection of small pouches called diverticula in the digestive tract, diverticulitis can vary in severity from mild discomfort to life-threatening emergencies. In this blog, we discuss the potential dangers of untreated diverticulitis and how Dr. Sepehr Lalezari at Lalezari Surgical in Los Angeles approaches surgical treatment when necessary.
The Dangers of Untreated Diverticulitis:
- Infection and Abscess Formation: One of the immediate risks of untreated diverticulitis is the development of an infection, which can lead to the formation of abscesses. These pockets of infection can cause severe pain and, if they rupture, can lead to a potentially fatal condition called peritonitis.
- Fistulas: Chronic inflammation caused by repeated episodes of diverticulitis can lead to the development of abnormal connections between the bowel and other internal organs, such as the bladder or the vagina. These fistulas can cause persistent infections and require complex surgery to repair.
- Intestinal Blockages: Long-standing inflammation can cause scar tissue to form, which may lead to partial or complete blockage of the intestine. This obstruction can cause severe pain, bloating, constipation, and bowel dysfunction.
- Perforation of the Colon: Perhaps the most severe complication of diverticulitis is the perforation of the colon, where a small tear in the bowel wall allows intestinal contents to leak into the abdominal cavity, leading to peritonitis. This is a medical emergency that requires urgent surgery.
When to Consider Diverticulitis Surgery with Dr. Lalezari
Surgery for diverticulitis is considered when:
- Conservative Treatments Fail: If antibiotics and diet modifications do not alleviate the symptoms or if episodes of diverticulitis recur frequently, surgery might be necessary to prevent further complications.
- Complications Develop: As mentioned, complications such as fistulas, abscesses, or perforations necessitate surgical intervention to resolve the condition and prevent widespread infection or further damage.
- Severe or Chronic Symptoms: For patients who experience severe attacks of diverticulitis or chronic symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life, surgery may be recommended to remove the affected portion of the colon.
Surgical Options with Dr. Sepehr Lalezari
At Lalezari Surgical, Dr. Lalezari utilizes minimally invasive techniques to treat diverticulitis surgically. These options include:
- Laparoscopic Surgery: This technique involves small incisions and specialized instruments to remove the diseased sections of the colon with minimal disruption to the rest of the digestive system. Benefits include shorter hospital stays, faster recovery, and less postoperative pain.
- Robotic Surgery: For more complex cases, Dr. Lalezari may use robotic surgery, which provides greater precision and control during the procedure.
Ignoring the symptoms of diverticulitis can lead to serious health issues, but timely surgical intervention can prevent complications and restore quality of life. If you or someone you know is struggling with symptoms of diverticulitis, it is crucial to seek professional medical advice.
Contact Dr. Sepehr Lalezari at Lalezari Surgical for a consultation to discuss your options for treatment and care.
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