| Sub-title | |
| Authors | D Aquilina M Szczepanski R Fenech P Cuschieri G Laferla |
| Abstract | Background: The value of intraoperative peritoneal lavage in the treatment of peritonitis is controversial. Surgeons that are in favour argue that this is beneficial others argue that this is detrimental. Aim: To measure bacterial concentration before and after peritoneal lavage in patients undergoing emergency appendicectomy. Methodology: We recruited 30 patients with a possible diagnosis of appendicitis. Patients were randomly allocated either in the lavage group or in the control group. Once the peritoneum was opened alginate swabs were taken from the RUQ, RIF and pelvis. Patients in the lavage group underwent peritoneal lavage with 500 cc of saline at the end of the operation. This was then aspirated and swabs retaken from the same sites. Patients in the control group did not undergo peritoneal lavage but swabs were be retaken from the same sites all the same. Results: The results showed: 1) a statistical significant reduction in bacterial concentration in patients undergoing peritoneal lavage; 2)lavage did not predispose to bacterial dissemination. Conclusion: Peritoneal lavage is beneficial as it dilutes the bacterial population and removes the majority of organisms. |
Published in: | |
| Journal | Malta Medical Journal |
| Volume | 18 Supplement |
| Page | |
| Date | 01/12/2006 |
| Link to journal | |
| Key words | appendicectomy, bacterial concentration, peritoneal lavage |