Intra-abdominal sepsis: the role of surgery

The role of the surgeon in intra-abdominal sepsis is multifactorial. A comprehensive understanding of the incidence and pathophysiology of diseases which cause intra-abdominal sepsis is the key to the diagnosis and treatment of such ailments. In simplest terms, the aetiology has two basic mechanisms: (a) violation of the 'bug-body barrier' and (b) obstruction to the flow of a body fluid with subsequent bacterial overgrowth. Either of these mechanisms may affect any of the organs within the abdomen, leading to sepsis. The peritoneal cavity is a dynamic structure which responds to insults in certain predictable manners which notify the alert physician that danger is present. Recognition of these signs through history and physical examination are the most important aspects of diagnosis. Confirmation of suspicions can be obtained with radiological modalities, but they are not a substitute for clinical judgement. Treatment of intra-abdominal sepsis should always begin with resuscitation and systemic antibiotics. Alleviation of the septic source is mandatory, and this may be achieved either operatively or non-operatively (i.e. percutaneous or endoscopic procedures). When the patient does not improve after the initial procedure, then a missed focus of infection must be investigated. In some cases, a planned or staged second operation may be needed to further debride necrotic tissue. Antibiotics should be of adequate spectrum and bioavailability to kill the species of bacteria most likely to cause the infection. This regimen may be altered when culture and sensitivity reports are completed. Finally, patients whose immune system function has been altered by disease or treatment must be assumed very ill until proven otherwise. These are general guidelines in the management of patients with intra-abdominal sepsis. Individual cases may necessitate slight modifications, but all require a high level of vigilance and expertise in order to combat a very lethal disease.