ورقة علمية / Research Paper

Background Emergency laparotomy is a high-risk surgical procedure with significant postoperative mortality. Patients often present with hemodynamic instability, especially hypotension, due to sepsis, hemorrhage, or perforated viscus. Preoperative hypotension reflects physiological derangement and poor tissue perfusion, which may contribute to adverse outcomes. International studies have confirmed its prognostic value, yet data from Sudanese hospitals are limited. Problem Statement Postoperative mortality following emergency laparotomy remains unacceptably high in Sudan. However, the predictive role of hypotension at presentation has not been adequately investigated, limiting early risk stratification and resuscitation strategies. Justification Identifying hypotension as a predictor of mortality will enable early triage, aggressive resuscitation, and tailored perioperative management for high-risk patients. This can help reduce mortality and guide clinical decision-making in emergency settings. General Objective To determine the association between hypotension at presentation and postoperative mortality in emergency laparotomy patients. Specific Objectives 1. To determine the prevalence of hypotension among emergency laparotomy patients. 2. To determine postoperative mortality rate among these patients. 3. To assess the association between preoperative hypotension and postoperative mortality. 4. To identify other factors associated with postoperative mortality

We will obtain written informed consent from every patient before any data is collected. All records will be anonymized by removing names and using unique ID numbers instead, ensuring that no individual can be identified in the final report. Access to the data will be strictly limited to the research team, and all personal information will remain completely confidential.

This study poses no significant risk to participants. It is an observational study that relies on routine clinical data

The data will provide local evidence to support clinical decision-making, helping surgeons and anesthesiologists balance the urgency of surgery with the need for preoperative stabilization.