Restoration of continuity after Hartmann's procedure for the complications of diverticular disease

Abstract

Although Hartmann's procedure has been accepted by most as the treatment of choice for diverticular disease complicated by generalized peritonitis, restoration of continuity may be difficult. A retrospective review of 30 patients, having had Hartmann's procedure for complicated diverticular disease, was made to assess restoration of continuity and factors which may influence its performance. This revealed zero mortality with a morbidity rate of 31.5% and a reversibility rate of 85% (with two cases still awaiting restoration of continuity).