Conclusions Complicated intra-abdominal infections are an important cause of morbidity and are frequently associated with a poor prognosis. Despite advances in diagnosis, surgery, antimicrobial therapy mortality associated

with complicated intra-abdominal infections remains still unacceptably high. Early adequate source control remains the cornerstone of intra-abdominal infection management. Early control of the septic source can be achieved either by nonoperative or operative means. Timing and adequacy of source control is the most important issue in the management of intra-abdominal infections, because an inadequate and late operation may have a negative effect on outcome. Recent advances in interventional and more aggressive techniques are debated and are not validated by limited prospective trials. Concomitant

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