diverticular disease of colon

overactivity of smooth muscle causing herniation of mucosa and submucosa through the muscle layers

incidence: 5-10% in 5th decade; 50% past 7th decade; M:F = 1:1
etiology: decreased fecal bulk; diet high in refined fiber and low in roughage
location:
- sigmoid (80%): narrowest colonic segment with highest pressure
- entire colon (17%)
- cecum/ascending colon (4-12%)