Routine exteriorization in the treatment of civilian colon injuries: a reappraisal.

1. We have reviewed our experiences with colon injuries from 1972-76. 2. Mortality increases when there are more than four associated organ injuries, the principal cause of death being sepsis. 3. Primary closure in our institution has a mortality and morbidity comparable to most other series, but exteriorization of the colon wound has given the best results of any treatment. 4. We feel that solitary wounds of the colon, with only one or two associated injuries, with little fecal contamination, should be treated by closure plus exteriorization, with return to the peritoneal cavity (interiorization) at five to ten days.