Sigmoid diverticulitis - perforated

Case contributed by Frank Gaillard
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Acute abdominal pain and guarding.

Patient Data

Age: 50 years
Gender: Female

Diverticula throughout the colon. Focal fat stranding adjacent to a sigmoid diverticulum with a small amount of extraluminal fluid and gas locules. Significant amount of pneumoperitoneum. Appendix is normal in appearance. Previous cholecystectomy with associated intra- and extra-hepatic biliary duct dilatation. IUCD and IDC noted.

Annotated image

Long segment of sigmoid colon demonstrates numerous diverticula and extensive stranding in the surrounding fat. Some gas appears extra-luminal (arrow). 

Vast quantities of free intra-abdominal gas are best seen in the upper abdomen (yellow arrows). 

Case Discussion

This case demonstrates vast quantities of free intraperitoneal gas, arising from a focal region of diverticulitis on a background of more extensive colonic diverticulosis. 

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