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Gastrointestinal perforation    See images

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Intestinal perforation; Perforation of the intestines

Definition:

Gastrointestinal perforation occurs when the wall of the intestinal system (stomach, small intestine, large bowel) has developed a hole through its entire thickness. Perforation of the gut leads to leakage of intestinal contents into the abdominal cavity, and peritonitis. Perforation anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract is a surgical emergency.

Causes and Risks

Gastrointestinal perforation is caused by a variety if illnesses, including appendicitis, diverticulitis, ulcer disease, Crohn's disease, and less commonly, infections of the bowel, such as infectious colitis.

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