Does a 48-Hour Rule Predict Outcomes in Patients with Acute Sigmoid Diverticulitis?

Introduction Sigmoid diverticulitis is an infection that resolves with conservative management in 70–85% of patients. Some patients require prolonged hospitalization or surgery during their admission. It has been taught that one should expect clinical improvement within 48 h. In this study, we examined whether basic clinical parameters (the maximum temperature and leukocyte count) of patients would predict improvement and discharge as expected, or prolonged hospitalization.