Penetrating abdominal stab wounds: a plea for a more conservative policy.

This is a retrospective study of 107 penetrating abdominal stab wounds which have been reviewed on the basis of the clinical indications for surgery. Eighty-four patients underwent laparotomy. The unnecessary laparotomy rate was 35 per cent and the mortality 2.4 per cent. Important complications developed in 44 per cent of those undergoing surgery. Evaluation of clinical variables is presented and it is suggested that in the absence of shock, generalized peritonitis or evisceration, careful initial assessment, monitoring and regular re-examination would be a satisfactory method of treatment for many cases. This would result in a decrease in unnecessary laparotomies and associated excess morbidity.