Current status of diagnostics and therapy of complicated intraabdominal infections

Regardless of improved diagnostics and therapeutic options, complicated intraabdominal infections remain a challenge in medicine. The prognosis of secondary peritonitis depends upon diagnosis and therapy in time. Diagnostic gold-standard is the computed tomography enhanced by contrast medium. Antimicrobial and supportive therapy is initiated before surgery and should be continued throughout and after the operation. Surgery aims on clearing the focus with a one-step-procedure in order to reduce perioperative morbidity and mortality.