Post-Operative Mortality after Ileal Perforation at a Teaching Hospital in Dhaka City

Abstract

Background: Ileal perforation is a very critical condition. Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to see the post-operative mortality after ileal perforation. Methodology: This prospective cohort study was conducted in the Department of Surgery at Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh from September 2000 to December 2002 for period of 2 years and 3 months. All the patients presented with ileal perforation at any age with both sexes were included in this study. Patients were selected consecutively and the patients who showed ileal perforation at laparotomy were included in this study. Preoperative diagnosis was based on detailed history, complete physical examinations supported by plain x-ray abdomen in erect posture including both domes of diaphragm. After immediate resuscitation surgical treatment was undertaken as soon as possible following admission in all cases. The patients were followed up and the mortality profiles were recorded after surgical intervention. Result: Out of 53 patients having postoperative complications 38 patients were survived and 15 patients were expired. So total survivors were 85% and non-survivors 15%. In this study most of the mortality (12%) was attributed to septicemia and mode of death was multiple organ failure. Respiratory complications caused 2% mortality one patient died of ARDS and another elderly patient with preexisting bronchial asthma developed respiratory failure and was unresponsive to treatment. One death was related to faecal fistula followed by severe fluid, electrolyte and acid-base imbalance with peritonitis and gross sepsis. Conclusion: In conclusion, the mortality is significantly high due to septicemia, ARDS and faecal fistula.