[Laparoscopic treatment of perforated duodenal ulcer]

To analyze the results obtained in patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery for perforated duodenal ulcer.

From January 2000 to August 2006, 15 consecutive patients with perforated duodenal ulcer underwent laparoscopic surgery after preoperative selection (ASA scores, time since onset of the perforation).

The mean age was 44.6 +/- 15.5 years (range, 18-75). There were 10 men and five women. Fourteen patients were ASA I-II. Time since onset of perforation was more than 12 hours in only one patient. Operative time was 70.5 +/- 9.6 minutes. There were two conversions (13.3%) to the open approach and two postoperative complications (prolonged ileus in one patient and self-limiting leakage in another). There were no intra-abdominal collections or mortality in the entire series. The mean length of hospital stay was 6.5 +/- 2.1 days.

In selected patients, laparoscopic treatment of perforated duodenal ulcer is safe and feasible. Technical standardization and appropriate patient selection are essential to define the real role of the laparoscopic approach in perforated duodenal ulcer.