Publication:

H. pylori and peptic ulcer perforation: prevalence of infection and role in surgical outcome

Background Perforated peptic ulcer is one of the most common surgical emergencies. Despite a definite association of H. pylori with peptic ulcer disease, its association with peptic ulcer perforation is still doubtful. The aim of the present study was to know the prevalence of H. pylori infection and its role in surgical outcome of patients.

Methods This prospective observational study was carried out at a tertiary care hospital of north India for a period of two years and included 136 consecutive patients of perforated peptic ulcer who underwent emergency laparotomy. H. pylori infection was tested on ulcer margin biopsy using rapid urease test kit and confirmed on histopathological examination.

Results 136 consecutive patients of perforated peptic ulcer were included in this study with mean age of 42.43 years and sex ratio of 11.4:1. H. pylori infection was present in fifty four percent (54%) of patients. There was no relationship of H. pylori infection with morbidity and mortality of patients.

Conclusions H. pylori infection should be assessed at the time of primary surgical management on biopsy specimen using rapid urease test and confirmed on histopathological examination. All positive patients should be subjected to H. pylori eradication therapy.