Arch Surg Chicago
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We studied 32 consecutive cases of small-bowel perforations treated in a single surgical unit during the last three years. Clinical features are typical and diagnosis is not difficult. ⋯ There were two deaths in the 16 patients who had exteriorization of the suture line (12.5%), compared with seven deaths in the group of 16 patients who did not have exteriorization (43.75%). Exteriorization of the suture line (16 cases) is a superior method of treatment and significantly lowers the mortality.