A case of sigmoid diverticular abscess treated by endoscopic drainage

Abstract

We describe a patient presenting diverticulitis with an abscess successfully treated by endoscopic drainage. A 59-year-old woman with left lower abdominal pain and fever was admitted to our hospital. Abdominal computed tomography revealed diverticulitis with abscess formation. Colonoscopy revealed colonic inflammation with abscess caused by diverticulitis. The abscess was drained by washing and aspiration during colonoscopy. After the purulent discharge from the abscess cavity was removed, abdominal pain and fever decreased, as expected. Endoscopic drainage, which is minimally invasive, has the potential to avoid emergency surgery in patients with many complications.