How do we diagnose acute diverticulitis? Results of a national survey about the role of imaging techniques

Introduction

The choice of imaging techniques in the diagnosis of acute diverticulitis is controversial. This study aimed to determine radiologists’ preferences for different imaging techniques in the management of acute diverticulitis and the extent to which they use the different radiologic techniques for this purpose.

Methods

An online survey was disseminated through the Spanish Society of Abdominal Imaging (Sociedad Española de Diagnóstico por Imagen del Abdomen (SEDIA)) and Twitter. The survey included questions about respondents’ working environments, protocolization, personal preferences, and actual practice in the radiological management of acute diverticulitis.

Results

A total of 186 responses were obtained, 72% from radiologists working in departments organized by organ/systems. Protocols for managing acute diverticulitis were in force in 48% of departments. Ultrasonography was the initial imaging technique in 47.5%, and 73% of the respondents considered that ultrasonography should be the first-choice technique; however, in practice, ultrasonography was the initial imaging technique in only 24% of departments. Computed tomography was the first imaging technique in 32.8% of departments, and its use was significantly more common outside normal working hours. The most frequently employed classification was the Hinchey classification (75%). Nearly all (96%) respondents expressed a desire for a consensus within the specialty about using the same classification. Hospitals with >500 beds and those organized by organ/systems had higher rates of protocolization, use of classifications, and belief that ultrasonography is the best first-line imaging technique.

Conclusions

The radiologic management of acute diverticulitis varies widely, with differences in the protocols used, radiologists’ opinions, and actual clinical practice.