Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026

Photoselective Vaporesection of the Prostate via an End-firing Lithium Triborate Crystal Laser
Published on: May 9, 2018
Septic complications of perforated peptic ulcer
Abstract:
The septic complications of peptic ulcer perforation have not been adequately described in the literature because the sparse microflora usually present in the upper gastrointestinal tract is generally believed to represent a minimal risk. One hundred and eighty-two peptic ulcer perforations (150 duodenal, 32 gastric), seen over 15 years, are reviewed. The septic complications relating to intestinal perforation included intra-abdominal abscess (22 cases), wound infection (26 cases) and generalized bacterial peritonitis (18 cases). The incidence of postoperative abscesses was significantly (p less than 0.05) greater in patients with gastric than with duodenal perforation. In both groups, abscesses were much more frequent when perforation occurred more than 24 hours before operation. The risk of intra-abdominal sepsis following acute peptic perforation is substantial. In such cases, routine anaerobic and aerobic cultures should be done of fluid taken from the peritoneal cavity at operation.
Insights
Septic complications following peptic ulcer perforation are a significant risk, especially with delayed treatment. Early surgical intervention and routine peritoneal fluid cultures are crucial for managing intra-abdominal sepsis.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Infections
Background:
- Peptic ulcer perforation is often associated with minimal septic risk due to sparse upper GI microflora.
- Limited literature adequately describes the septic complications of peptic ulcer perforation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the incidence and types of septic complications following peptic ulcer perforation.
- To identify risk factors associated with postoperative sepsis in these patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 182 peptic ulcer perforations (150 duodenal, 32 gastric) over 15 years.
- Analysis of septic complications including intra-abdominal abscess, wound infection, and generalized peritonitis.
Main Results:
- Septic complications included intra-abdominal abscess (22), wound infection (26), and peritonitis (18).
- Higher incidence of postoperative abscesses in gastric (32) versus duodenal (150) perforations (p<0.05).
- Abscesses were more frequent when perforation occurred >24 hours before surgery.
Conclusions:
- Acute peptic ulcer perforation carries a substantial risk of intra-abdominal sepsis.
- Routine anaerobic and aerobic cultures of peritoneal fluid during operation are recommended.
Related Concept Videos
Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.
Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Clinical Manifestations:
Inflammatory Bowel Disease I: Ulcerative Colitis
Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, encompasses a group of disorders characterized by chronic inflammation or ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract.
Risk Factors
The exact cause of IBD remains unclear, although it is believed to be due to a mix of genetic, environmental, microbial, and immune factors. Genetic factors are significant in determining susceptibility to IBD, with family history being a critical risk factor. Individuals with a first-degree relative who has IBD are at...
Peptic Ulcer Disease V: Surgical Management and Nursing Care
Surgical Interventions for Peptic Ulcer Disease
Peptic Ulcer
Peptic Ulcer Disease III: Clinical Manifestations and Complications

