[Perforation of the small intestine].
BACKGROUND: Small bowel perforation is a major problem in abdominal typhi disease, but is seldom observed in Italy, as Salmonella typhi infections are rare in this Nation. The cause of perforation varies greatly. The reported mortality is high and varies from 23 up to 42%. A retrospective study has been performed in order to find how to improve the outcome. METHODS: A series spanning 10 years is reviewed, from January 1, 1987 to December 31, 1997, comprising 60 patients with small bowel perforation, operated in a urgency setting in the Operating Room of the Emergency Department of the Molinette Hospital in Torino. Resection and primary anastomosis were utilized in 33 patients, 27 underwent oversewing. In 3 patients a colostomy was felt necessary because of a concomitant damage of the colon. RESULTS: No leakages occurred. Hospital stay varies from 1 day to 76 days (24 days mean). Mortality is consistent with literature: 20 patients (33%) but the cause is related to the primary diseases of the patients. Delay in diagnosis did not affect the patient's outcome. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, it is confirmed the one-time surgery as the choice treatment in small bowel perforations from causes other then S. typhi infection. Mortality is not directly related to the consequences of surgical repair.