Bowel Perforations

A Surgical Emergency Demanding Immediate, Expert Care

Overview

Bowel perforation, also known as gastrointestinal perforation, is a life-threatening condition where a hole or tear develops in the wall of the small intestine or large intestine. This allows intestinal contents—including bacteria, bile, and digestive fluids—to spill into the abdominal cavity, leading to peritonitis (infection of the abdominal lining), sepsis, and potentially multi-organ failure.

Common Causes of Bowel Perforations

• Peptic ulcer disease (especially duodenal ulcers)
• Diverticulitis or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) like Crohn’s disease
• Trauma (blunt or penetrating abdominal injuries)
• Cancer or obstructive tumors of the bowel
• Ingested foreign objects
• Infections like typhoid or tuberculosis
• Iatrogenic injury (during colonoscopy, surgery, or endoscopy)
• Ischemia (reduced blood supply to the bowel)

Symptoms of Bowel Perforation

• Sudden, severe abdominal pain
• Rigid, distended abdomen
• High fever, chills, or sweating
• Nausea, vomiting
• Rapid heart rate and low blood pressure (shock)
• Inability to pass gas or stool
• Signs of confusion or sepsis in advanced cases

Diagnosis

Prompt and accurate diagnosis is essential. Diagnostic methods include:

• Clinical examination: Detects peritonitis (rebound tenderness, guarding)
• X-ray of the abdomen: Shows free air under the diaphragm
• Ultrasound / FAST scan: For fluid collections and perforation signs
• CT scan with contrast: Confirms perforation site and assesses severity
• Blood tests: Elevated WBC, CRP, lactate, signs of sepsis

Complications If Untreated

Why Choose Us?

• Over 30 years of surgical GI experience
• Expertise in complex abdominal emergencies
• Skilled in open, laparoscopic, and robotic GI surgery
• Advanced critical care coordination with ICU support
• High survival rates and focus on patient-centered care

Post-Operative & Follow-Up Care

• ICU monitoring in critical cases
• Gradual reintroduction of diet
• Antibiotic therapy and wound care
• Stoma care education (if needed)
• Long-term GI health monitoring

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

If you suspect a bowel perforation—especially with sudden abdominal pain and fever—don’t delay. Prompt surgery is the only way to save life and prevent complications.