One hundred and three patients with intestinal gangrene were managed in Ile-Ife, Nigeria over a 10-year period. The overall mortality in the series was 25.2%. Strangulated hernias were responsible for 65 cases (63%), intussusception 20.4%, adhesions 11.7% and volvulus 2.9%.
Avoidable deaths resulted from anastomotic breakdown and inadequate preoperative fluid therapy. Primary intestinal resection and end-to-end anastomosis of large bowel involved in gangrene gave very good results. It was found to be quite safe and economical, and avoided the inconveniences and complications of a colostomy.
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