PERFORATED PEPTIC ULCER

A REVIEW OF 36 CASES

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the epidemiology of peptic ulcer perforation in Armed Forces and further management / outcome of the patients. Methods: Data of 36 patients with perforated peptic ulcer collected. This data was analyzed on SPSS 13. Period and Setting: CMH Rawalpindi from Jan 1979 to July 1981, Jan 1985 to Dec 1987 and Jan 2001 to Dec 2003. Results: Out of 36 patients 35 were male and only one was female. Twenty four (67%) were between 31-50 years. No past history was taken from eight (22%) patients. Thirty four (94%) patients presented with duodenal perforation. Twenty patients (55%) had rigidity all over abdomen and peristalsis were present in ten (28%) patients who reported within twelve hours. Seventy eight (78%) were diagnosed by history and simple radiological examination. All the patients were treated by laparotomy (simple closure with omental patch). Post operative complications occur in ten (28%) patients and mortality rate was 8%. Conclusion: Predominantly the peptic ulcer perforation occurs between 30-50 years of age. The incidence reduces with succeeding years of study. Post operative complications were less in younger age group .Early diagnosis can be made easily by taking good history and performing simple radiological examination.