Aetiology and Impact of Intra-abdominal Sepsis on Surgical Management

An overview of intra-abdominal sepsis is necessary at this time with new experimental studies and audits on management outcomes. The understanding of the pathophysiology of the peritoneum in the manifestation of surgical sepsis and the knowledge of the source of pathogenic organisms which reach the peritoneal cavity are crucial to the prevention of intra-abdominal infection. Recent advances in interventional techniques for peritonitis have significantly reduced the morbidity and mortality of physiologically severe complicated abdominal infection. Sepsis is an evolving process and the sequelae reflect the increasing severity of the systemic response to infection. Prevention entails early recognition, prompt resuscitation and early surgical intervention to abort the process. Sepsis represents a major clinical challenge and their management demands a multidisciplinary approach.