The colon and rectal specialists at UPMC in Central Pa. provide personalized surgical and nonsurgical treatment for diverticular disease and related complications.
At UPMC, our colon and rectal care specialists provide expert diagnosis and personalized treatment for diverticular disease. Whether you need surgical or nonsurgical treatment, we take a team approach to your care. We work closely with other medical specialists — including family doctors, gastroenterologists, and registered dietitians — to prevent complications, improve your quality of life, and provide you with comprehensive diverticular disease treatment.
Diverticular disease occurs when small pouches or sacs (called diverticulae) develop in weakened areas on the wall of your colon. The presence of these pouches is called diverticulosis. When the pouches become inflamed, the condition is called diverticulitis.
Although diverticulosis does not usually cause symptoms, complications can sometimes develop. The most common complication, called diverticulitis, occurs when the pouches become inflamed and infected. If diverticulitis is left untreated, it can lead to other complications, such as a fistula or bowel obstruction. Other more serious complications of diverticulosis include perforation and severe infection of your abdominal cavity or the wall of your colon.
Diverticular bleeding is another complication that occurs when blood vessels next to the diverticula become damaged or weakened.
Our experts use leading-edge technology and techniques to diagnose and treat diverticular disease and related complications. We offer a full range of tests and treatments, including:
Our board-certified colon and rectal surgeons use open, laparoscopic, and robotic surgical techniques. The focus is to preserve natural bowel function and avoid the need for a colostomy. Our surgeons will use minimally invasive techniques whenever possible to shorten your recovery time, decrease pain, and improve outcomes.
Surgical procedures to treat diverticular disease include:
Diverticulosis does not usually cause symptoms. However, diverticulitis may cause symptoms including:
Diverticular bleeding may cause bright red rectal bleeding. The bleeding is usually painless but may be heavy. You may also experience lightheadedness or dizziness.
Researchers believe that diverticula form when there is increased pressure on the colon, which can be caused by constipation. If you experience frequent constipation or straining during bowel movements, you may be at a higher risk of developing diverticular disease.
Diverticular disease is most common in people older than age 60. Eating a low-fiber diet that is high in red meat and fat can increase your risk of developing diverticular disease. People who smoke, are obese, or do not exercise regularly may be more likely to experience symptoms.
Maintaining good bowel habits can lower your risk of developing diverticular disease. Eating a diet rich in fiber, drinking plenty of water, and exercising regularly can promote regular bowel movements and help you avoid constipation and straining.
Phone: 717-232-4567
UPMC Memorial
1703 Innovation Dr.
Suite 3136
York, PA 17408
Phone: 717-741-3449
3907 N. Front St.
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Our outstanding team of colon rectal surgeons, including those at UPMC Pinnacle Colon and Rectal Surgery, perform a full range of open and minimally invasive procedures such as colonoscopy, colon surgery, hemorrhoid removal, and treatment of anorectal conditions. Our board certified surgeons perform both laparoscopic and robotic surgery techniques which can reduce pain, reduce the amount of time you spend in the hospital, and shorten the time it takes to heal from a surgical procedure.
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