Intestinal perforation

Intestinal perforation is a serious medical condition where a hole or tear occurs in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract. It primarily affects the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. This condition can lead to the leakage of the contents of the intestines into the abdominal cavity, causing severe infection and inflammation, known as peritonitis.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Intestinal perforation can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Trauma or injury to the abdomen
Inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
Diverticulitis, a condition where small pouches in the colon become inflamed
Peptic ulcer disease
Cancer of the gastrointestinal tract
Appendicitis

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of intestinal perforation can vary depending on the location and severity of the perforation. Common symptoms include:

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of intestinal perforation typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests. These may include:

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for intestinal perforation usually involves surgery to repair the hole or tear. In some cases, a portion of the affected intestine may need to be removed. Antibiotics are also typically given to treat or prevent infection.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for intestinal perforation can vary greatly depending on the severity of the perforation and the overall health of the patient. With prompt treatment, many people can recover fully. However, complications can occur, including sepsis, abscess formation, and long-term digestive problems.

See also[edit | edit source]

Intestinal perforation Resources
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