We describe three cases that presented with symptoms suggestive of appendicitis but were found at operation to have an inflamed solitary caecal diverticulum. All were treated successfully with diverticulectomy or inversion of the diverticulum. We wish to highlight this diagnosis and its surgical management so that informed decisions can be made if this is first encountered in the operating theatre.

In patients with coccygeal pilonidal sinus disease, a single-stage incision and lay open of the sinus tract is the most efficient operation, especially during emergency surgery.

The addition of a Fleet enema or oral lactulose over and above a single Fleet enema gives no significant improvement in the acceptability or efficacy of bowel preparation.

Bowel preparation for flexible sigmoidoscopy using a single Fleet enema is acceptable to patients and more effective than glycerin suppositories.