Rectal diverticula.

Eight cases of rectal diverticula are discussed with reference to the etiological, clinical and radiological findings. Males predominated 3:1 and the average number of diverticula in each patient was 2. Diverticulosis of the remaining colon, especially the sigmoid segment, always accompanied rectal diverticula. The average diameter of rectal diverticula was larger than that of the colonic: 2.5 cm vs. 0.5-1.0 cm. Rectal diverticula may be confused with a carcinoma at endoscopy. Surgical treatment becomes necessary if the diverticulum progresses to abscess formation and perforation.