Perforated peptic ulcer.

The article focuses on the clinical management and outcomes of perforated peptic ulcer (PPU), a leading cause of mortality following emergency abdominal surgery worldwide. It highlights the importance of rapid diagnosis—preferably via computed tomography (CT)—and timely surgical intervention, as delays significantly increase mortality risk. Simple closure of the perforation remains the preferred surgical treatment, with laparoscopic approaches favored in experienced centers due to benefits such as reduced morbidity. Various scoring systems, including the Peptic Ulcer Perforation (PULP) score, assist in mortality risk prediction, while postoperative care protocols like early oral intake show promise in improving recovery. Follow-up endoscopy is recommended, especially to exclude malignancy in gastric ulcers and to confirm Helicobacter pylori eradication.