Gastrointestinal Perforation

The GI tract includes the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. A perforation in any of these areas disrupts the normal containment of digestive materials, leading to contamination of the abdominal cavity.
Causes

1. Medical Conditions:
   • Peptic Ulcers: Erosion of the stomach lining due to excess acid or infection (e.g., H. pylori).
   • Diverticulitis: Inflamed or infected pouches in the colon.
   • Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, which can rupture.
   • Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
   • Cancer: Tumors in the GI tract can weaken the intestinal wall.
2. Trauma:
   • Blunt abdominal injuries (e.g., car accidents).
   • Penetrating wounds (e.g., knife or gunshot injuries).
3. Medical Procedures:
   • Rare complications from endoscopy, colonoscopy, or surgeries.
4. Medical Procedures:
   • Ingestion of corrosive substances or foreign objects.
   • Severe bowel obstruction causing pressure buildup.