3. How can bacteria enter the peritoneal cavity from intra-abdominal viscera?
Correct answer:
(1) Gangrene of a viscus, e.g. acute appendicitis, acute cholecystitis, diverticulitis or infarction of the intestine.
(2) Perforation of a viscus, e.g. perforated duodenal ulcer, perforated appendicitis, rupture of intestine from trauma.
(3) Postoperative leakage of an intestinal suture line.
