Lower bowel disorders. 2. Diverticular disease.

Diverticula are thought to result from high intraluminal pressures in closed segments of the sigmoid colon, causing herniation of mucosa and submucosa through muscle along the paths of the nutrient vessels. Mild diverticular disease usually can be managed with bed rest and a controlled diet, plus administration of antibiotics. Acute diverticulitis, especially recurrent bouts, may call for colonic resection.