Publication:

Perforated peptic ulcer (PPU): a one year review in tertiary care hospital in Uttarakhand, India

Background Peptic ulcer perforation is a common surgical emergency. The perforation usually involves the anterior wall of duodenum (60%), although, it might occur in antrum (20%) and lesser curvature of stomach (20%). Conventional open surgery involving repair with omental patch remains the gold standard treatment. This study evaluates the patterns and demographic factors associated with this common surgical disease and the outcome analysis of surgery in our state.

Methods The study was undertaken for patients admitted in surgery department in a single unit who underwent open surgery for perforated peptic ulcer. A total of 78 patients were assessed between January 2016 to January 2017.

Results The study found PPU to be a male dominated disease in fifth decade and with significant association with smoking and alcohol consumption. First part of duodenum being the commonest location of PPU, the peritoneal contamination was directly associated with the duration of symptoms. Wound infection was the most frequent post-operative complication. Simple repair with omental patch remains an effective treatment modality.

Conclusions Perforated peptic ulcer disease commonly affects middle aged males especially due to association with alcohol intake. Simple closure with omental patch followed by H. pylori eradication is an effective treatment modality.