Perforated viscus (brief)

Question 1

What causes it?

Answer 1

An organ with an abnormal opening is called a perforated viscus. Viscus technically means a hollow organ found inside the body. The plural viscera is used if multiple organs have been perforated.
Blunt abdominal trauma, such as in RTA can cause it. Stab and gunshot wounds. Infections.

Question 2

What risks are there?

Answer 2

Spilling of materials from GI organs inside the abdomen usually happens in the presence of a perforated abdominal viscus. These materials often are toxic inside the body cavity. Bacteria often reach the blood system in most of these cases, thus immediate medical attention and effective treatment generally are needed in such situations.

Question 3

How does it present?

Answer 3

Range from moderate to severe symptoms. May include fever, low blood pressure, tachycardia, abdo pain, nausea, vomiting, abdominal distention. When prompt treatment is not given, it is often life threatening

Question 4

Signs on examination?

Answer 4

Severe pain
Pyrexia
Rigid abdomen

Question 5

Investigations?

Answer 5

Imaging (x-ray, CT, US)

Question 6

Treatment?

Answer 6

Surgery