Mechanical effectiveness of closed peritoneal irrigation in peritonitis.

Peritonitis was produced in rabbits using a human fecal suspension. Catheters for multiple peritoneal lavage then were inserted and continuous irrigation was performed. Contrast material was injected on day 1, 2, or 3 to evaluate the mechanical effectiveness of irrigation. Radiologic studies revealed that contrast material penetrated most or all six regions in all animals. The addition of heparin to the irrigant did not alter the number of regions irrigated. It has been concluded the peritoneal irrigation effectively irrigates most of the peritoneal cavity for up to 3 days.