Perforation

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Perforation

Overview

A perforation is a hole in the wall of the digestive tract. A perforation may occur anywhere in the digestive tract and may occur when:

  • A crater-shaped sore (ulcer) eats through the wall of the stomach or a section of intestine.
  • An infection in the appendix eats through the wall of the appendix.
  • An infection of an abnormal pouch or sac in the intestine (diverticulum) eats through the wall of a section of the bowel.
  • A swallowed object punctures the digestive tract.

A perforation of the digestive tract can be life-threatening. It can cause severe pain and bleeding. The material inside the intestines can leak into the hollow space of the abdomen (abdominal cavity) and cause an infection (peritonitis). Emergency surgery is needed when a perforation has occurred.

Credits

Current as of: October 19, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: October 19, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

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