Aim: To study the applicability of the Mannheim's peritonitis index in predicting mortality in patients with perforative peritonitis.
Methods: A total of 50 patients diagnosed as perforative peritonitis based on history, clinical examination, and plain skiagram abdomen erect antero-posterior view were studied. The Mannheim's peritonitis index was calculated at first laparotomy.
Results: Overall post-operative mortality rate was 10%. Middle age population (35-55 years) was predominantly affected (48%) with male preponderance (75%). Peptic ulcer perforation was the most common cause of peritonitis. Malignant perforation of hollow viscus accounted for only 4% of cases. Mean MPI Score of survivors was 22.04, and that of non survivors was 33.2. Mortality rate was highest in patients with high MPI Score.
Conclusion: Mannheim's peritonitis index is easy to use, with all variables easily available at first laparotomy, with reproducible results and is a reliable predictor of mortality.