Laparoscopic Repair of Ileal Perforation Post Blunt Abdominal Trauma: A Case Report

Abstract

Blunt trauma to the abdomen is considered one of the most leading causes of death among all age groups. Although the outcome of patients with blunt abdominal injury has improved in the last two decades, in patients with multiple organ injuries, the in-hospital mortality rate was reported as 3–10%. Delayed diagnosis of small bowel perforation can result in serious complications and death, making timely diagnosis critical in the treatment of these patients. The diagnosis of small bowel perforation is usually made by imaging techniques that detect the presence of fluids or gases in the peritoneum or mediastinum. There are different treatment options for small bowel perforation; conservative treatment is not favoured. Herein, we present the case of a 35-year-old gentleman diagnosed with a perforated viscus following a road traffic accident. A diagnostic laparoscopy was performed, and a 1 cm perforation of the terminal ileum was repaired. Postoperative recovery was uneventful except for mild paralytic ileus. The patient was discharged 8 days later and reviewed at the surgical outpatient department after one- and two-months post-surgery, with no reported complaints.