What should I think about if I have a partial colectomy for diverticulosis?

Going into your surgery, you may not know whether you will need to have a two-stage operation and a colostomy. The surgeon may have to make that decision after the surgery has started. If the surgery is done when you are not having an attack of diverticulitis, the chances that the surgery will be done in one step are higher. Emergency surgery has a higher risk of a two-step surgery. But some emergency surgeries are done in only one step.

If you do not have frequent attacks of diverticulitis and do not have complications, you may be able to avoid surgery and to control your condition with a high-fiber diet.

People who have colostomies need instructions about caring for the collection bag and about dietary changes that can reduce odor and gas. They also need emotional support, because many people find having a colostomy embarrassing.