Introduction:
Acute peritonitis is a surgical emergency and is conventionally managed with exploratory laparotomy in many centers, but laparoscopy is not contraindicated in such conditions. Operative management remains a cornerstone treatment in peritonitis irrespective of the primary pathology.
Presentation of case:
A 32-years-old man was admitted with acute diffuse peritonitis. As he was clinically stable, we proceeded with conservative treatment and diagnostic workup. He did not respond by 24 h and CT imaging showed ascites, but no definite diagnosis could be made. Diagnostic laparoscopy was performed, thorough peritoneal toileting was done but surprisingly the etiology was unclear. Following laparoscopy, he responded well with an uneventful recovery.
Discussion:
Timely proper evaluation and correct intervention are a paramount concern for the positive outcome. Regarding the most effective operative approach (laparotomy or laparoscopy) in acute peritonitis remains controversial in the literature and laparoscopy has been considered as a relative contraindication. However, the laparoscopy is gaining wider acceptance as the limitations of laparoscopy are declining rapidly. We experienced a case of extensive peritonitis with unclear etiology which we managed successfully by laparoscopy.
Conclusion:
Laparoscopic approach in peritonitis is effective and helpful for accurate diagnosis and to minimize the hazards of an unnecessary laparotomy. This case report might encourage many surgeons to consider laparoscopic approach in peritonitis with confidence and to perform further studies.