Laparoscopic management of generalized peritonitis due to perforated colonic diverticula

PURPOSE: The use of laparoscopic peritoneal lavage in conjunction with parenteral fluids and antibiotic therapy in the management of generalized peritonitis secondary to perforated diverticular disease of the colon was assessed. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This cohort comprised 8 patients with generalized peritonitis secondary to perforated diverticular disease of the left colon that was diagnosed laparoscopically. All the patients had purulent peritonitis, but no fecal contamination. They were treated with laparoscopic peritoneal lavage and intravenous fluids and antibiotics. RESULTS: All patients made a complete recovery, with resumption of normal diet within 5 to 8 days. No patient has required surgical intervention during a 12- to 48-month follow-up. This approach merits further assessment as an alternative to the traditional open surgical management.