I have had 2 bouts of diverticulitis, 8 months apart. do i need surgery?

Probably not: Most flares of diverticulitis can be managed conservatively with antibiotics and bowel rest.

Need To See Surgeon: Factors that contribute to the decision to undergo elective colon resection for diverticular disease include the number and severity of prior attacks, patient age and overall health, and extent of diverticuli. In general, one has to balance the benefit of reducing the chance for future attacks with the risk of major abdominal surgery. This decision is best made with a general surgeon.