Abstract Cecal diverticulitis is an unusual lesion and most surgeons have had little personal experience with it. Diagnosis, even at the time of operation, is difficult and consequently treatment is often inappropriate. A preoperative diagnosis of appendicitis and suspected malignancy at the time of operation are usual. Major colonic resections are frequently performed because of the uncertainty of diagnosis at operation. Simple excision of the diverticulum is the procedure of choice. Considering the benign nature of the lesion and the substantial mortality associated with right colectomy, it behooves clinicians to consider the possibility of cecal diverticulitis when right lower quadrant pain, tenderness, or mass are present. Barium enema is the most useful diagnostic tool available.