| The colon (large intestine) is a long tube-like structure | | | | in a diverticulum, causing obstruction. This obstruction |
| that stores and then eliminates waste material. | | | | may result in distension of the diverticula secondary to |
| Pressure within the colon causes bulging pockets of | | | | mucous secretion and overgrowth of normal colonic |
| tissue (sacs) that push out from the colonic walls as a | | | | bacteria. Vascular compromise and subsequent |
| person ages. A small bulging sac pushing outward | | | | microperforation or macroperforation then ensue. |
| from the colon wall is called a diverticulum. More than | | | | Alternatively, some believe that increased intraluminal |
| one bulging sac is referred to as diverticula. | | | | pressure or inspissated food particles cause erosion of |
| Diverticulitis is defined as an inflammation of one or | | | | the diverticular wall, resulting in inflammation, focal |
| more diverticula. Its pathogenesis remains unclear. | | | | necrosis, and perforation. |
| Fecal material or undigested food particles may collect | | | | |