[Epidemiologic and demographic aspects characteristic of patients with perforated duodenal ulcer]

Epidemiologic and demographic characteristics of 285 patients operated for perforated duodenal ulcer in 1972-1991 are discussed. A decrease in the number of patients undergoing surgery for the uncomplicated duodenal ulcer is being noted. However, surgery rate in patients with perforated duodenal ulcer remains constant. Only 14% of patients undergoing surgery for perforated duodenal ulcer is under 60. Most frequently such operations are performed in young and middle aged male patients. The obtained results suggest that there is a strong correlation between perforated duodenal ulcer and long duration of the disease, family ulcer history, and smoking.