Is a sigmoid colectomy for diverticulitis the only option?

Posted by rtj1023 @rtj1023, 4 days ago

I’m looking for alternatives to sigmoid colectomy surgery. I had a CT scan because of poor gut health and felt like maybe something was structurally wrong as I was always bloated, constipated or had diarrhea. The scan showed that I have two fissures/tunneling between my sigmoid colon and my bladder and the other to my anterior abdominal wall. Apparently neither are leaking at this time, but surgeon recommends having a sigmoid colectomy before they do. I’d like to know if these fissures can be repaired in lieu of the colectomy and all the issues I read about on this site. I don’t feel like my surgeon advised me about any of this, simply stating “life will be largely unchanged”. He said no to repairs. Hoping for a second opinion?

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rtj1023 | @rtj1023 | 4 days ago

It’s probably worth mentioning that in the last 9 months I’ve been doagnosed with high blood pressure which is under control with meds and in the last 4 months, type 2 diabetes that forced me to make good health changes and bowel function improved almost immediately with lower blood sugar. Digestively I feel the best I have in years and am worried about messing this up. It feels to me like diabetic paresis was more to blame for my digestive issues that diverticulitis as I haven’t had a flare up since initial diagnosis 7 years ago…

rxjoey | @rxjoey | 3 days ago

Is the suggested surgery going to be reversed after healing,…or is it permanent?

Joanne Narna | @mothermary1 | 2 days ago

Most definitely get a second and third opinion. Be sure to get it done if in the end you need it with someone who has done this surgery many times. Sometimes staying local for convenience isn’t always in your best interest.
Wish you all the luck.
I’m also sure you’ve already had a lot of labs done?