Hinchey classification

Q: Hinchey classification system describes stages of? (select one)

A) pelvic contamination

B) peritoneal contamination 

Answer: B

The extent of peritoneal contamination is usually assessed by the Hinchey classification system described more than four decades ago. It has four stages.

Stage I – Pericolic or mesenteric abscess

Stage II – Walled-off pelvic abscess

Stage III – Generalized purulent peritonitis

Stage IV – Generalized feculent peritonitis

Clinically, in general, stages 1 and 2 can be managed conservatively. Stages Hinchey 3 and 4 require surgical intervention.

#surgical-critical-care

Reference:

Hinchey EJ, Schaal PG, Richards GK. Treatment of perforated diverticular disease of the colon. Adv Surg 1978; 12:85.