Evaluating quality of life after surgery for diverticulitis

DATE Trial: Outcomes and Quality of Life in Patients With Early Versus Elective Resection in Acute Complicated and Chronic Recurrent Left-sided Diverticulitis

Not applicable Interventional Kepler University Hospital · NCT05942833

This study tests whether having surgery sooner or later for diverticulitis affects how well patients feel and recover afterward.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment136 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorKepler University Hospital Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations4 sites (Linz, Austria and 3 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05942833 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the quality of life outcomes in patients with acute complicated and chronic recurrent left-sided diverticulitis. Patients will be randomized into two groups: one receiving early left hemicolectomy within 7 to 10 days of admission, and the other undergoing elective resection 6 to 8 weeks after initial treatment. Quality of life will be assessed using standardized scoring systems, including the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index and the Short-form 36 Score, at various points post-surgery. The study aims to determine the impact of timing of surgery on patient recovery and overall well-being.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults with acute complicated left-sided diverticulitis or recurrent diverticulitis without complications.

Not a fit: Patients who are under 18, pregnant, or have significant comorbidities that prevent them from undergoing surgery may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved quality of life for patients undergoing surgery for diverticulitis.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with early surgical intervention in diverticulitis, suggesting this approach may be beneficial.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Informed consent to participate in the study
* CDD Type 2a, 2b: acute complicated left-sided diverticulitis
* CDD Type 3b: relapsing diverticulitis without complications (\>2 episodes within 2 years)
* Acute presentation
* Inflammation located in the left-sided colon
* Inflammation is CT proven or ultrasound confirmed from experienced radiologists

Exclusion Criteria:

* \< 18 years
* Pregnancy
* BMI \> 55kg/m2
* Current colorectal carcinoma in the left-sided colon
* Oral and/or intravenous corticosteroid
* Ongoing chemotherapy
* Status post left hemicolectomy
* Patients who cannot take care of themselves at home or are unable to follow instructions
* Patients who are not fit for surgery (anesthesia, expert knowledge from specialists) and will not benefit from surgery

Where this trial is running

Linz, Austria and 3 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Diverticulitis of SigmoidRecurrent diverticulitisQuality of lifeAcute complicated DiverticulitisEarly resectionElective resection
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.