Diverticulitis Surgery
Diverticula are small outpouchings that develop at weakened areas of the colon wall. Diverticula commonly develop as people age, and most commonly develop in the sigmoid colon, the portion of the colon that is located in the left lower quadrant of the abdomen where the stool is more formed before it empties into the rectum. For most people, diverticula are incidentally noted on a colonoscopy or radiologic imaging, and are not harmful or painful (diverticulosis). However, when the diverticula become inflamed or perforate (diverticulitis), they can cause acute or chronic pain or other bothersome symptoms, like constipation, cramping, or bloating.
At Weill Cornell Medicine, Our colon and rectal surgeons will discuss treatment options with you and whether surgery is recommended to treat your diverticulitis. This decision may depend on various factors, such as the frequency and severity of your symptoms, the duration of your symptoms, the risk of complications, and the response to other measures, lifestyle changes, healthy diet, exercise, and weight management.
Why Choose Weill Cornell Medicine for Diverticulitis Surgery?
Individualized care: Our surgeons are dedicated to improving the lives of patients with colon and rectal disorders and are committed to excellence in patient care.
Our goal is to preserve healthy bowel whenever possible, lessen disease complications, reduce the risk of recurrence, and help you achieve the best possible quality of life.
Multidisciplinary care from leading experts: Diverticulitis requires comprehensive, collaborative care from both surgical and medical experts. When you choose Weill Cornell Medicine, you have access to experts in colon and rectal surgery, gastroenterology, wound care, nutrition, radiology, laboratory medicine and pathology. This unique multidisciplinary approach coordinates complex care, providing you with focused support — before, during, and after surgery.
In addition, our patients benefit from collaborative care with:
- The Jay Monahan Center for Gastrointestinal Health
- The Jill Roberts Center for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Weill Cornell Medicine partners with NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S.
Surgical Treatments for Diverticulitis
Bowel resection with primary anastomosis: In this procedure, your surgeon removes the portion of diseased colon (known as a colectomy). Next, the surgeon connects the two healthy ends from either side (anastomosis).
Bowel resection with colostomy: In certain situations, after removing the diseased segment of the colon, the two ends of the intestine are not reconnected. The portion of intestine is brought up through an opening in your abdomen and secured to the skin (colostomy). This opening is called a stoma. This type of colostomy may be temporary, and the reconnection is then performed at a second surgery. Our surgeons can also discuss options for colostomy reversal if you have had this type of surgery.
When possible, surgeries for diverticulitis are performed by our experts in a minimally invasive fashion, utilizing laparoscopic and robotic surgical approaches, which creates less trauma, less pain, shorter hospitalization, and quicker return to your regular activities.
At Weill Cornell Medical Center/New York-Presbyterian, we support our patients and their loved ones while they receive treatment. Learn more about what to expect for preparing for your surgery and during your stay.
Make an Appointment
Whether you visit us virtually through a video visit or you see us in person, you can be assured that we will deliver the highest standards of care with compassion. Our team has taken every step to keep our facilities safe for you to continue your care. Learn more about our safety measures and the changes we’ve made to enhance your patient experience.
To request an appointment, please fill out our form. Our staff will help you find the physician who best fits your individual medical needs.
Meet Our Surgeons
The surgeons at the Weill Cornell Medicine Colon and Rectal Surgery Division offer patients the highest level of safety and care. As a top-ranked academic medical center, you have access to our extensive network of specialists who provide seamless care throughout your treatment — to promote long-term physical and mental health.
