Intraabdominal operations in patients with leukemia

We reviewed results of intraabdominal operations in 23 patients with acute or chronic leukemia to address morbidity, mortality, and factors associated with complications. We found a higher mortality rate among those who had emergency procedures as opposed to elective procedures. Three of four patients who needed reoperation and all four patients with ischemic or perforated viscus died, all from sepsis. Factors such as age, preoperative leukocyte or granulocyte count, or preoperative use of steroids or antineoplastic drugs did not affect the outcome. We therefore recommend early surgical intervention in these patients, even in the face of granulocytopenia, thrombocytopenia, or active medical treatment.