Synchronous perforation of sigmoid diverticula: a rare presentation.

Diverticular disease affects more than 50% of the population over the age of 60 years in the west and becomes even more common as the population ages. Diverticulitis is one of the complications of diverticular disease and can culminate into colonic perforation. Though perforated diverticular disease is not uncommon, synchronous colonic perforations in diverticulitis is rare. Our patient was admitted with acute abdomen and exploratory laparotomy revealed two side-by-side perforations of the sigmoid colon. A Hartmann's procedure was performed. Macro- and microscopic evaluation confirmed the presence of two perforated sigmoid diverticula due to diverticulitis. Simultaneous perforation of two abreast sigmoid diverticula is uncommon; thus, a cautious surgeon should always take into account such a probable diagnosis.

Diverticular abscess presenting as a strangulated inguinal hernia: case report and review of the literature.

Potentially life threatening diseases can mimic a groin hernia. We present an unusual case of diverticulitis with perforation and a resulting abscess presenting as a strangulated inguinal hernia. The features demonstrated were not due to strangulation of the contents of the hernia but rather pus tracking into the hernia sac from the peritoneal cavity. The patient underwent sigmoid resection and drainage of retroperitoneal and pericolonic abscesses. Radiological and laboratory studies augment in reaching a diagnosis. The differential diagnosis of inguinal swellings is discussed.