To better understand diverticulosis, it is helpful to understand colon anatomy. The walls of the colon are made up of numerous layers. There is an inner lining called the mucosa, which is responsible for fluid absorption. This layer also produces mucous. The next layer is the submucosa, which contains blood vessels, lymphatics and nerves. These layers are wrapped in a circular muscle layer. Finally, there is a longitudinal muscle layer, which does not cover the entire surface of the colon. Blood vessels enter the colon wall in between the longitudinal muscles, making an area of inherent weakness in the colon’s circular muscle layer.
Diverticulosis medical expert witness specialties include gastroenterology, general surgery, pathology, colon-rectal surgery, immunology, internal medicine, family medicine, and hospitalist medicine.