Epidemiology and Outcomes of Peptic Ulcer Perforation: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study From a Tertiary Care Hospital in India

Background Peptic ulcer perforation (PUP) is a life-threatening complication of peptic ulcer disease (PUD), with significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in low-resource settings. Driven by factors such as <i>Helicobacter pylori</i> (<i>H. pylori</i>) infection, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) use, and socio-economic disparities, PUP requires urgent surgical intervention. This study investigates clinical characteristics, risk factors, and surgical outcomes of PUP in a tribal predominant tertiary care hospital in India. Methods This analytical cross-sectional study enrolled 82 patients undergoing emergency surgery for PUP at a tertiary care centre in Ranchi, India. Patients aged >18 years with confirmed or suspected PUP were included, excluding those with sealed perforation. Data on demographics, clinical presentation, <i>H. pylori</i> status, surgical procedures, and outcomes were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square and Fisher's exact tests, with multivariate logistic regression to identify mortality predictors. Results Of 82 patients, 84.14% were male, 47.56% aged 18-40 years, and 41.47% from lower socio-economic classes. Duodenal perforations (48.78%) were most common, with 82.5% testing positive for <i>H. pylori </i>(p<0.0001). Delayed presentation (>48 hours) increased mortality risk [Odds Ratio (OR)=3.50, p=0.004], with 22.44% mortality. Perforation size of >2 cm (OR=3; p=0.010)and severe anaemia (OR=2.90; p=0.013) were significant mortality predictors. Graham's patch (n=46) had three cases of postoperative anastomotic leak, although not statistically significant (p=0.282). Complications included pleural effusion (24.39%) and surgical site infection (13.42%), with 13.42% overall mortality. Conclusion PUP remains a significant burden in India, driven by delayed presentation, size of perforation, and presence of severe anaemia. Early presentation of symptoms, early surgical intervention, and management of anaemia are crucial to improving outcomes.