Outpatient Treatment of Acute Uncomplicated Diverticulitis

Abstract

Introduction: Acute diverticulitis is the most frequent complication of diverticular colon disease and cause of hospitalizations. Its treatment has been assessed in recent years; there is a tendency to limit surgical treatment and promote conservative treatment instead.

Objective: To review the applicability, safety and efficacy of outpatient treatment of acute uncomplicated diverticulitis in selected patients.

Methods: A bibliographic review was carried out in sources of information available in the SciELO and Medline (Pubmed) databases, as well as in Google Scholar, by means of which a total of 36 references were selected.

Development: Historically speaking, patients diagnosed with acute diverticulitis have been admitted to hospitals for study and dietary, antibiotic and analgesic treatment. In recent years, there has been a growing tendency worldwide to treat these patients on an outpatient basis once it has been proven that the condition is not complicated, which has shown, with level of evidence, that patients present a favorable evolution without the need for admission, with less expenses for the health system.

Conclusions: Outpatient treatment of acute uncomplicated diverticulitis is not only effective and safe, but also applicable in most patients, given that they can tolerate oral intake and have an adequate family environment.