Bowel perforation is a life-threatening condition where a hole develops in the wall of the small or large intestine, allowing intestinal contents to leak into the abdominal cavity. This causes severe infection (peritonitis) and may rapidly lead to sepsis, organ failure, or death if not treated urgently.
Dr. K.K. Verma, a highly experienced gastrointestinal and laparoscopic surgeon in Jabalpur, offers immediate diagnosis, surgical intervention, and critical post-operative care for bowel perforations, using both laparoscopic and open surgery based on the patient’s condition.
Bowel perforation can be caused by multiple conditions, including:
Diverticulitis (most common in the colon)
Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis)
Injury or trauma (blunt or penetrating abdominal trauma)
Complication of colonoscopy or surgery
Cancer or tumor-related erosion
Strangulated hernia
Ischemic bowel disease (poor blood flow)
Infections (like typhoid, tuberculosis)
Sudden, severe abdominal pain
Pain spreading across the entire abdomen
Rigid or board-like abdomen
Fever and chills
Nausea and vomiting
Inability to pass stool or gas
Signs of septic shock: low blood pressure, fast heartbeat, confusion
⚠️ Bowel perforation is a surgical emergency — immediate treatment is essential to save life.
The diagnosis is aimed at quickly identifying perforation and planning surgery without delay.
Abdominal rigidity and tenderness Rebound tenderness and guarding Absence of bowel sounds
Presence of free gas under the diaphragm (classic sign of perforation)
Detects free fluid, air, or abscess formation
Confirms location, size, and cause of the perforation Identifies surrounding infection or complications
High white blood cell (WBC) count Elevated CRP or procalcitonin Indicators of sepsis or organ dysfunction
The only effective treatment is emergency surgery combined with intensive supportive care.
Ideal for early-detected, stable patients Less postoperative pain, smaller incisions, and quicker recovery
Most common approach in emergency bowel perforations Involves large incision to access and repair or remove damaged bowel Thorough abdominal washout to remove contamination
Damaged segment is removed and healthy ends are rejoined
Sometimes needed if the patient is unstable or there's heavy contamination Helps rest the bowel and protect healing
24x7 monitoring, organ support, and sepsis control
Continued for 5–7 days or longer depending on infection severity
Starts with clear liquids once bowel function returns, progressing to soft diet
Incision monitoring, stoma care (if placed), and long-term gastrointestinal evaluation
Yes. Delay in treatment can cause peritonitis, sepsis, and death.
No. Perforation always needs emergency surgery to repair or remove the damaged bowel.
In some severe or infected cases, a temporary stoma may be created. It can often be reversed after recovery.
Usually 5–10 days depending on the severity and surgical approach.
With timely surgery and proper care, most patients recover fully. Ongoing GI monitoring may be needed for underlying causes like IBD or tumors.
Dr. K.K. Verma is a renowned laparoscopic surgeon known for his precision and patient-centric care. With years of experience and advanced surgical skills, he specializes in minimally invasive procedures that ensure quicker recovery. His dedication to excellence has earned him the trust of countless patients.
shop no 29, 30, stadium ROAD, opposite Satya Ashoka Hotel, Wright Town, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh 482002
drkrishan.kant@gmail.com
+91-7835924276
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