[The effect of staged lavages in peritonitis on the vital functions]

In 16 consecutive patients with diffuse peritonitis 93 staged lavages were undertaken. In a retrospective study the changes of some vital functions due to transport in the operating room and staged lavage were evaluated. 9 patients (56%) survived the diffuse peritonitis. The vital parameters showed no significant changes following staged lavages. Intraabdominal specimen cultures were positive in 62% of cases, showing no correlation of the underlying disease and mortality. Only an elevation of C-reactive protein and rise of thrombocyte count correlated significantly with the outcome of diffuse peritonitis.