Understanding Patient Decision-Making for Colectomy in Recurrent Diverticulitis

Patients’ perspectives on colectomy for recurrent diverticulitis were explored through focus groups. A conceptual framework was developed to capture major themes identified in the qualitative data. The study found that the decision to pursue colectomy is highly preference sensitive, influenced by patients’ beliefs about surgery, psychosocial context, and moderating factors. These factors included clinical history, clinical protocols, and provider-specific factors. This knowledge is essential for clinicians counseling patients considering colectomy and for optimizing care in recurrent diverticulitis.