Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

What type of surgery typically follows the resection of a perforated diverticulum?

1. Simple repair

2. Two stage operation

3. Colostomy

4. Elective surgery

The correct answer is: Two stage operation

The resection of a perforated diverticulum generally necessitates a more complex surgical approach due to the nature of the condition and the associated risks. A two-stage operation is often performed in this scenario to ensure adequate healing and to address any complications that may arise from the initial perforation. In the first stage, the perforated diverticulum and any affected bowel segment are removed, which may involve creating a temporary colostomy to divert fecal matter away from the healing site. This allows for better management of infection and inflammation associated with the perforation. Following a period of recovery, usually after several weeks to allow for the inflammation to subside and the patient’s condition to stabilize, the second stage involves a planned repair of the bowel continuity. This staged approach reduces the risk of anastomotic leak, which is a critical concern when dealing with infected or compromised tissues from the initial perforation. In contrast, a simple repair would not adequately address the complexities involved in a perforated diverticulum, as it may require more extensive treatment. A colostomy may be part of the process but does not represent the full surgical strategy required post-perforation. Elective surgery, on the other hand, typically refers to surgical procedures that are planned