title: Prognosis in generalized peritonitis. Relation to cause and risk factors.
abstract: Generalized peritonitis was assessed in 176 patients, 67 (38%) of whom died. Cases were divided into causative groups: (1) appendicitis and perforated duodenal ulcer, (2) intraperitoneal origin other than appendix or duodenum, and (3) postoperative peritonitis. Mortalities were 10%, 50%, and 60%, respectively. Postoperative peritonitis was characterized by lack of influence of age on outcome, late operation, and more frequent organ failure. Delayed surgery carried a worse prognosis. Organ failure was a risk factor with 76% mortality, and was associated with late operation. Early surgery in organ failure improved survival. More sensitive indicators of early organ dysfunction might improve survival.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010538:Peritonitis / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000401:mortality*; D011379:Prognosis; D012306:Risk