What are the complications of diverticulitis?

Complications of diverticulitis can include complete colon perforation, fistulas (tunnels) to the bladder or vagina, and narrowing or blockage of the intestine. Surgery is almost always required in these serious cases.

Bleeding typically does not occur with diverticulitis but can occur from one of the non-inflamed pockets (diverticulosis). Most bleeding from diverticulosis stops on its own, but blood transfusions and surgery are sometimes required.