Risk factor analysis and surgical outcomes in emergency gastrectomy for gastric perforation: a single-center retrospective cohort study.

Purpose: Gastric perforation remains a life-threatening condition despite advances in medical therapies and surgical techniques. In clinical emergencies involving gastric perforation, distinguishing between benign and malignant etiologies remains uncertain until histological confirmation is obtained. Methods: This study analyzed 79 patients who underwent emergency gastrectomy for gastric perforation between 2010 and 2024. Patients were categorized into ulcer and cancer groups based on pathological findings. Clinical data, including preoperative conditions and postoperative outcomes, were analyzed using univariate and multivariate analyses. Results: Elderly (aged ≥75 years), symptom duration ≥48 hours, and American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification IV-E were significant risk factors for postoperative mortality. The cancer group had longer operation times, while ventilator use was more common in the ulcer group. No significant differences were observed in overall mortality rates. Conclusion: Emergency gastrectomy can be a viable treatment for gastric perforation in regions with a high incidence of gastric cancer. However, patients with advanced age, delayed symptom onset, or poor physical status require careful surgical planning. Tailored strategies may improve outcomes, particularly in high-incidence regions for gastric cancer.