What is the primary goal of surgical intervention in cases of diverticulitis?

The primary goal of surgical intervention in cases of diverticulitis is to address complications such as an abscess or perforation. When diverticulitis becomes complicated, these conditions can lead to significant morbidity, including sepsis or peritonitis, which can be life-threatening if not managed promptly.

In cases where there is a localized abscess, surgical drainage might be necessary to relieve symptoms and prevent further complications. If a perforation occurs, urgent surgical intervention is often required to repair the damaged area of the colon and to clean the peritoneal cavity to prevent widespread infection.

While surgical options may also be considered to remove segments of the colon or to prevent further episodes in chronic recurrent cases, the immediate focus is on managing these acute complications effectively to stabilize the patient and promote recovery.