The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast #510 Diverticulitis for the Hospitalist
Jan 5, 2026
Dr. Bob Hollis, a colorectal surgeon specializing in diverticulitis and Dr. Andrew Webster, an infectious diseases physician, dive deep into managing diverticulitis. They clarify how to distinguish between uncomplicated and complicated cases, discussing when to use antibiotics and the importance of imaging. Surgical perspectives are shared, particularly on abscess management and the significance of deciding when to involve surgery. Nutrition advice for hospitalized patients rounds out their discussions, alongside debunking common myths around diet and diverticulitis.
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Episode notes
Go Fast, Go Slow
- Bob Hollis's best advice as a surgeon: know when to go fast and when to go slow.
- He applies this both in the OR and in clinic and at home with family.
Definition And Imaging
- Diverticulitis means inflammation of preexisting colonic diverticula and does not always indicate infection.
- CT is the diagnostic gold standard to distinguish uncomplicated from complicated disease.
Selective Antibiotic Use
- For immune-competent, uncomplicated left-sided diverticulitis without sepsis, consider observation without antibiotics.
- If systemic signs (fever, elevated WBC, tachycardia) are present, start antibiotics and arrange outpatient follow-up.
