[Attempt at classification in patients with peritonitis--evaluation of 53 patients].

Classification is necessary when comparing and judging the results of the treatment of patients with peritonitis. Staging of peritonitis was developed according to interoperative findings. The spreading and age of peritonitis has been considered when contemplating further operative management. In order to judge the general clinical picture, a grading of severity into three groups, using a point scheme, was developed. 22 patients with localised peritonitis in an advanced stage received a closed peritoneal lavage. 31 patients with generalised peritonitis received continual open dorsoventral peritoneal lavage.