SP 6.11 Standardization of International Diverticular Disease Definitions
Zarnigar Khan, Adam Fahey, Sam Lawday, Alexander Hawkins, Matt Lee, Dale VimalachandranAbstract
Background
Diverticulitis is a benign disease encompassing diverticulosis and its various complications. Despite increasing prevalence of diverticular disease globally, there remains a lack of agreement in the definitions of diverticular disease. This study aimed to obtain generalized consensus on definitions for the disease processes within diverticular disease.
Methods
This is a cross-sectional survey. Initial definitions were developed by the research team through a comprehensive search of PubMed studies. Definitions were refined through extensive beta testing resulting in preliminary definitions for the survey. Nine diverticular disease terms were placed into the survey. The survey was distributed to global experts to achieve consensus. Based on prior definition consensus studies, an 80% agreement threshold was used to reach consensus for each definition.
Results
Two hundred and seven responses were received following survey distribution. Based on the results of the definition surveys, each proposed definition met consensus agreement. The average years of practice among respondents was 12 years. Most identified as surgical physicians (n=178, 87.3%), with 23 (11.3%) identifying as medical physicians and 3 (1.5%) identifying as other allied health professionals. The most represented countries amongst respondents were the United States (n=100, 49.0%), the United Kingdom (n=65, 31.9%), and Canada (n=13, 6.4%).
Discussion
The results of this survey revealed consensus from various healthcare providers globally, indicating significant agreement. Some definitions had higher consensus agreement than others, revealing a need to investigate the nuances of certain definitions further. These standardizations of common diverticular terms will enhance both clinical care and research.