Does drainage of the peritoneal cavity have an impact on the postoperative course of community-acquired, secondary, lower gastrointestinal tract peritonitis?

Background: In the surgical management of lower gastrointestinal tract peritonitis (LGTP), drainage of the peritoneal cavity is often recommended. The objective of the study was to evaluate the impact of drainage of the abdominal cavity during management of LGTP.

Methods: From January 2009 to January 2012, patients undergoing surgery for LGTP were included.