A retrospective analysis was made of the prognostic factors and management of traumatic perforation of the colon and rectum in 80 patients during the period of 1980 to 1988 at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. The total mortality was 11%. Morbidity was 18% among the survivors. The mortality was higher in patients with old age (50% for those over 60 years old), delayed operation (50% for a delay of more than 72 hours), poor nutrition (57%), shock condition before or during operation (50%), severe abdominal fecal contamination (35%) and associated abdominal injury. We conclude that the surgical procedures for traumatic perforation of colon and rectum performed depend upon the patient's condition. The prognostic factors in patients with traumatic perforation are patient's age, timing of operation, degree of abdominal fecal contamination, injury to other abdominal organs and general condition such as nutrition and shock.