This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (Intervention). The objectives are as follows:

The objectives of this systematic review is to compare the advantages and disadvantages of primary anastomosis with secondary anastomosis following laparotomy and colonic resection for diverticular peritonitis with Hinchey III (purulent peritonitis) or Hinchey IV (faecal peritonitis).

We will test the following hypotheses:
Primary anastomosis after colonic resection with or without colonic washout for Hinchey III or Hinchey IV peritonitis secondary to complicated diverticulitis is safe and does not incur an increase the mortality or morbidity.
Primary anastomosis in fact may be more beneficial as it avoids a potential subsequent operation of 'Reversal of Hartmann's procedure' and the potential complications associated in this second procedure.