Anatomy and Physiology of Diverticular Disease

2 Types True- saclike herniation of the entire bowel False (Pseudodiverticula)- only a protrusion of the muscosa through the muscularis propria of the colon Most common type= pseudodiverticulum

Mostly occurs in sigmoid colon Relative high pressure zone within muscular sigmoid Higher amplitude contractions + constipated high-fat content stool within sigmoid lumen = diverticula

Protrusion in vasa recti penetrates through the muscularis propria Results in a break in the integrity of the colonic wall Diverticulitis- inflammation of a diverticulum Due to retention of particulate material within diverticular sac Formation of fecalith Perforation or bleeding due to compression or erosion of the vasa recti