Retrospective Analysis of Clinical Characteristics, Treatment Outcomes and Risk Factors for Complications in Appendicitis Patients

Abstract

Background: Appendicitis is a common acute abdominal disease. This retrospective study aimed to analyze the clinical characteristics, treatment outcomes, and risk factors for complications in appendicitis patients.

Methods: Data of 620 appendicitis patients treated at our hospital from January 2021 to December 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient demographics, clinical manifestations, treatment methods, and postoperative outcomes were collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify risk factors for complications.

Results: The median age of the patients was 35 years (IQR: 22-48), with 58.1% being male. Acute appendicitis accounted for 89.2% (553/620), and 32.1% (199/620) of patients presented with perforated appendicitis. Laparoscopic appendectomy was performed in 75.8% (470/620) of cases, showing shorter postoperative hospital stay (median: 3 days vs. 5 days, p < 0.001) and lower complication rates (12.1% vs. 21.7%, p = 0.003) compared to open appendectomy.Multivariate analysis identified advanced age (≥ 60 years, OR = 2.35, 95% CI: 1.42-3.88, p = 0.001), perforated appendicitis (OR = 3.12, 95% CI: 1.98-4.89, p < 0.001), and comorbidities (OR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.23-2.89, p = 0.003) as independent risk factors for postoperative complications.

Conclusion: Advanced age, perforated appendicitis, and comorbidities increase the risk of complications in appendicitis patients. Laparoscopic appendectomy is associated with better postoperative outcomes and should be the preferred treatment when feasible.