Acute Appendicitis and Its Management: A Hospital Based Study

Abstract

Background: Acute appendicitis is the most common acute surgical condition of the abdomen, which if complicated by perforation or peritonitis has high morbidity and mortality. Aim: The aim of this study is to analyze the presentation, diagnosis and management of acute appendicitis along with the role of conservative management in uncomplicated cases. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in Govt. Medical College Jammu over a period of one year w.e.f September 2017 to August 2018 and included 120 patients. Diagnosis in the suspected patients was based on history, clinical examination coupled with laboratory investigations and imaging modalities like ultrasound/ CT Scan wherever required. Results: 120 patients of acute appendicitis were treated over the period of one year at our center. Abdominal pain was the most common and constant presentation seen in 112 patients followed by vomiting (82), history of fever (60), history of constipation and distension (20) and another 12 had history of diarrhoea. Six patients (5%) responded favorably to conservative management. Conclusion: Acute appendicitis is a common surgical emergency requiring detailed history and meticulous examination coupled with X-ray and ultrasonography for diagnosis. Appendectomy is the standard procedure of choice and wherever feasible laparoscopic appendectomy offers the advantage of less pain, short hospital stay, earlier return to work and overall cost. Keywords: Acute Appendicitis, Appendectomy, Alvarado Score, Phlegmon, Abscess.