Surgical treatment for traumatic bowel injury

Objective. To study treatment outcomes in patients with traumatic bowel injury in peacetime. Material and methods. A retrospective study involved 27 patients with traumatic bowel injury who underwent surgery at Botkin Hospital in 2016-2024. All patients were delivered to the shock room of the emergency department for initial examination. In 25 cases, we performed contrast-enhanced CT before surgery; 2 patients were sent to the operating theater immediately. Results. Primary repair of small bowel was performed in 4 patients, small bowel resection — in 12 patients, colon resection — in 8 patients. Primary anastomosis was formed in 12 cases, ileostomy/colostomy — in 11 patients. Risk factors for primary anastomosis are unstable hemodynamics requiring inotropic support; massive transfusion therapy; fecal contamination of abdominal cavity; more than 6-hour preoperative period. Conclusion. Available experience, damage control surgery and necessary reconstruction of bowel continuity inspired own treatment algorithm for this category of patients to reduce morbidity and mortality.