An In-Depth Examination of Acute Peritonitis Patient Evaluation in a Clinical Study

Abstract

Background: Peritonitis is a frequent surgical emergency, and effectively managing it continues to be a complex task, even as surgical techniques, antimicrobial therapies, and intensive care support have advanced significantly. The primary culprits behind peritonitis are typically perforations of hollow organs and cases of appendicitis. Our study was conducted with the objective of examining the leading cause of peritonitis resulting from perforations, identifying associated risk factors, assessing various clinical presentation patterns, exploring treatment strategies, scrutinizing postoperative complications. Methods: We conducted a study involving 100 patients aged 12 years and older who presented with peritonitis. These patients were closely monitored over a span ranging from 10 months to 2 years, with an average follow-up period of approximately 18 months. Results:  The leading cause of peritonitis in our study was appendicular perforation, followed closely by peptic ulcer perforation. Perforation-induced peritonitis accounted for 28% of all emergency surgeries conducted, with a male-to- female ratio of 3:1. The majority of patients falling within the age group of 51 to 60 years. Patients who sought medical attention within 24 hours of perforation experienced a smoother recovery, while those presenting after this critical time frame encountered more significant postoperative complications. We also found that serum CRP (C-reactive protein) levels served as a valuable prognostic indicator. These levels remained elevated in cases with complications. Among the complications observed, wound infections were the most prevalent, occurring in 56% of cases. Conclusion: Indeed, early diagnosis and timely surgical intervention are pivotal factors in facilitating rapid recovery for patients with peritonitis. However, it’s important to note that the ultimate outcome is influenced by various factors, including the patient’s age, the extent of peritoneal contamination, and the presence of any concurrent medical conditions. This study underscores the significance of C-reactive protein (CRP) as a serum prognostic marker, shedding light on its potential to aid in predicting patient outcomes.