Complicated Diverticulitis With Associated Small Bowel Obstruction: A Case Report.

Diverticulitis is a common disease of the colon with a broad spectrum of presentations. This case outlines a less commonly seen presentation of delayed complicated diverticulitis with abscess formation and associated small bowel obstruction. This report outlines the case of a 58-year-old obese male who initially presented to the emergency department with uncomplicated diverticulitis, was discharged home, and returned two days later with worsening symptoms. A repeat computed tomography (CT) scan demonstrated abscess formation with an associated small bowel obstruction. He underwent midline exploratory laparotomy with adhesiolysis of the portion of obstructed small bowel and resection of the diseased segment with primary anastomosis and diverting loop ileostomy. He had an ileostomy reversal at a later date. Small bowel obstruction is a less observed complication of diverticulitis. This report serves to educate on the presentation of these patients as well as to discuss the potential surgical management of these patients. If this patient had presented without the small bowel obstruction, he may have just needed percutaneous drainage.