Brandlhuber M, et al. - Here, the experts determine the long-term quality of life (QoL) for acute diverticulitis (AD) patients who receive either surgery or conservative treatment in different stages. Phlegmonous AD [Hansen and Stock (HS) type 2a, Hinchey Ia, and the German classification of diverticular disease (CDD)1b, respectively] must be treated conservatively when considering long-term QoL. Abscess size should guide the decision on whether to perform surgery later on or not in patients with covered perforation. When abscess size exceeds 1 cm, patients fare better after elective sigmoid colectomy in terms of the long-term quality of life.