Descriptive study on Acute Appendicitis: a single unit experience

Abstract

Introduction The appendix has significant relevance in the field of surgery, primarily due to its association with acute appendicitis, a common and urgent medical condition. Appendicectomy is an emergency procedure known to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with untreated appendicitis. The present study was conducted to observe, compile, and analyze the common symptomatology, demographic details, and post-operative complications of acute appendicitis. Material & Methods This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from May 2023 to May 2024 in surgical wards (05 & 17 (single unit)) at the National Hospital of Sri Lanka. Within the study period, 94 patients presented to the defined wards at met the criteria for the study, defined as any patient who presented with appendicitis and underwent an appendectomy for treatment. Patient demographic details, symptomatology and post-op complications were recorded to elucidate potential complicating factors and observe relevant trends. Results Of the total study population of 94, 64% were male and 36% were female. Additionally, a majority of the population (69%) belonged to the age subgroup defined as 15 to 30 years old. Of the 94 patients, 100% presented with abdominal pain, 90% had anorexia, 60% presented with a fever, and 45% complained of vomiting. The majority of the appendix (76.5%) found retrocecal in position during surgery. Of the appendectomies performed, 64% of patients successfully underwent appendectomies with no clinical complications; however, the remaining minority, 58.8% were observed to sustain some form of wound infection, 14.8% were diagnosed with paralytic ileus, and 11.8% had formed a pelvic abscess. Additionally, two patients featured assorted delayed complications and one patient suffered an adhesive small bowel obstruction and another was diagnosed with a fecal fistula. Conclusion Given the high prevalence of acute appendicitis in younger age groups, no matter the age the diagnosis of appendicitis is possible in any patient presenting with complaints of acute abdominal pain. Additionally, and a fact that should be celebrated, appendicectomy complications are extremely rare and have a favourable prognosis.