Joe, my father, a retired physician/surgeon, just had this operation done about 2.5 months ago. It went fine and he opted for it even though the biopsy revealed no cancer or tumor.
Now his decision was based on age and density of diverticuli in the lower colon. He had gone in for the colonoscopy and the Doctor could not get beyond an unknown 'mass' in the lower area. So the colonoscopy could not be done.
So after the imaging and tests, he decided on his own to have immediate surgery.
He rationailed that due to his age (mid 70's) and the threat of later bowel obstruction by the uncommonly
grouped diverticuli, it was best to avoid problems later. (eruptions, obstructed bowel etc. )He is a physician and sees the worst case scenario first.
That is why he chose immediate surgery even though his physician was less motivated.
All in all, the surgery was of the less invasive type and he was up and dancing in a very short time (2-3 weeks)
He was already on a high fiber, no fat diet etc. due to a ministroke 6 yrs ago. And yes it is best to avoid seeds etc. They can even end up in your appenidix i believe.
So, size up your age, health, time off, and number of present diverticuli in the colon section that would be removed.
Apparently ,we all have these things in various numbers in our colon, but when they erupt like your case, it is trouble. That is what my father wanted to avoid later.
Seek the best team to work on you if you choose surgery.
Regards
Denis
