Tasa de mortalidad por perforación intestinal no traumática en Chile: Análisis del periodo 2016-2023

Mortality Rate from Non-Traumatic Intestinal Perforation in Chile: Analysis of the 2016–2023 Period

Abstract

Introduction: Non-traumatic intestinal perforation is a condition with high morbidity and often delayed diagnosis. Due to the limited national data, this study analyzed the mortality rate (MR) from this cause in Chile between 2016 and 2023. Materials and Methods: An observational, descriptive, and quantitative study was conducted using data from the Department of Health Statistics and Information (DEIS) and the National Institute of Statistics (INE). Analysis was performed using measures of central tendency and graphical representation with Microsoft Excel. Ethical committee approval was not required. Results: A total of 1,031 cases were analyzed, with an overall MR of 0.70 per 100,000 inhabitants. The highest MR occurred in 2016. Females showed a higher MR compared to males. The age group 80 years and older had the highest MR. The Los Ríos Region recorded the highest regional MR. Discussion: The decline in MR during 2020 and 2021 may have been influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to reduced healthcare access for non-COVID conditions, potentially causing diagnostic delays. The higher MR among females may be associated with comorbidities and chronic NSAID use. The elevated MR in those aged 80 and older could be related to increased disease burden, such as malignancies. Southern regions, particularly those with high rural populations, showed higher MR, possibly due to limited access to timely medical care. Conclusion: Critical geographic areas and vulnerable population groups have been identified, providing a foundation for future research and for the development of public health policies aimed at reducing mortality from non-traumatic intestinal perforation.