Diverticulitis

GENERAL MEASURES

Increase unprocessed foods in diet. Supplement with bran.

MEDICINE TREATMENT

Localised diverticulitis:

• Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, oral, 875/125 mg 12 hourly.

Severe disease:

• Ampicillin, IV, 1 g 6 hourly.

PLUS

• Gentamicin, IV, 6 mg/kg daily. PLUS

• Metronidazole, IV, 500 mg 8 hourly.

REFERRAL

» Clinical deterioration or failure to improve.

» Peritonitis

» Fistulae

» Strictures

» Massive haemorrhage