ICU Map

Intra-abdominal Sepsis & Source Control ICU Pathway

ICU approach to perforation, abscess, postoperative leak, ischemic bowel and complicated intra-abdominal infection

RecognizeAssessDecideDifferentialInterveneReassess
Intra-abdominal Sepsis & Source Control
Assessment StepStabilize physiology and identify the reversible driverExplore Topic
Perforation, anastomotic leak, abscess, ischemic bowel and infected collections require rapid localization. CT with IV contrast is often central when the patient can safely undergo imaging, but unstable patients may need immediate operative evaluation.
Clinical ActionDeliver disease-specific therapy and source control
Drain infected collections, repair or resect perforated/ischemic bowel, and control ongoing contamination. Do not continue escalating antibiotics while an uncontrolled anatomical source persists.

An educational representation of clinical reasoning, not a diagnostic algorithm or personalized medical advice — always apply clinical judgment and institutional protocols.

Caution

Escalate — Red Flags & Critical Warnings

  • Do not allow diagnostic testing to delay immediate stabilization or time-critical definitive therapy.

Related Bedside Clinical Problems (1)

Bedside Presentations
Intra-abdominal Sepsis & Source Control — Bedside Problem

ICU approach to perforation, abscess, postoperative leak, ischemic bowel and complicated intra-abdominal infection

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Linked Deep-Dive Topics (1)

Reference Knowledge
Intra-abdominal Sepsis & Source Controlgi-hepatic

ICU approach to perforation, abscess, postoperative leak, ischemic bowel and complicated intra-abdominal infection

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Evidence status

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