Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

What is the term for a saccular dilation leading from the lumen of the bowel?

1. Aneurysm

2. Diverticulum

3. Fistula

4. Hernia

The correct answer is: Diverticulum

The term for a saccular dilation leading from the lumen of the bowel is a diverticulum. This anatomical structure refers to an outpouching or bulging of the intestinal wall that occurs at a weak point, resulting in a sac-like formation. Diverticula can develop in various parts of the gastrointestinal tract, most commonly in the colon, and may arise due to increased pressure within the lumen and associated tissue weakness. The formation of diverticula is often linked to dietary factors, particularly low fiber intake, and can be asymptomatic or lead to complications such as diverticulitis, which is inflammation of the diverticulum. Understanding diverticula is crucial in general surgery and surgical practice because they are common clinical findings and can significantly impact patient care. The other terms do not accurately describe this specific condition. An aneurysm typically refers to a dilation of a blood vessel rather than the bowel. A fistula is an abnormal connection between two epithelial surfaces, such as between the intestine and skin or between two segments of the intestine. A hernia refers to the protrusion of an organ or tissue through an abnormal opening, often seen in the abdominal wall, rather than a localized dilation from the bowel lumen. Thus, the choice of diverticulum as the answer aligns