Small intestine perforation

Rupture of the intestinal wall located between the opening of the stomach and the beginning of the colon.

It is generally a result of a complication of a duodenal ulcer, appendicitis, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease or cancer, but may also be secondary to a surgery or a diagnostic test.

It manifests as severe abdominal pain, which may be accompanied by nausea, vomits, blood in faeces, fever and shivering.

Diagnosis is made based on clinical history and physical examination. It is confirmed by abdominal X-ray and/or CT-scan. Treatment is surgical in most cases.