Meet Dr. Anthony Vine

Diverticulitis

Diverticulosis is a condition caused by small pouches (diverticula) forming in the digestive tract. This typically happens in the lower portion of the intestines (sigmoid colon). Weak spots in the intestinal wall cause these pouches to develop, and while they are often asymptomatic or cause only mild symptoms, they can become inflamed or infected leading to diverticulitis. While most diverticulitis is on the left side, right-sided diverticulitis cases do occur and are seen more often in younger and middle-aged women. If left untreated, diverticulitis can lead to serious complications.

Symptoms of Diverticulitis

  • Abdominal pain – typically the lower left side
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fever and chills
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Bloating and gas
  • Loss of appetite

What Can Cause a Diverticulitis Flare-Up?

  • Frequent constipation or straining during bowel movements
  • Diet low in fiber
  • Aging – more common in people over 40
  • Obesity
  • Sedentary lifestyle or lack of exercise
  • Smoking

Managing Diverticulitis

Dr. Anthony Vine treats some of his patients with antibiotics, a liquid diet and rest. More severe cases may need hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics and can lead  to complications including bowel obstruction, abscesses or perforation, requiring laparoscopic colon surgery, sometimes including a temporary colostomy bag.

Dr. Vine is an Attending Surgeon and Associate Clinical Professor of Surgery at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital. His office is located at 1010 5th Avenue at the Laparoscopic Surgical Center of New York. 

For more information on Dr. Vine’s treatment of Diverticulitis, please visit our Laparoscopic Colon Surgery overview

Please note that our Terms of Service and Online Privacy Policy have been updated.