Retrospective cohort study of elderly patients with acute appendicitis

Abstract

Aim: Appendicitis is the most common surgical cause of abdominal pain among the patients being admitted to Emergency department. Although it affects younger patients, its incidence increases in elderly as the population gets older. Higher perforation and complication rates have been reported in elderly patients. The aim of this study is to investigate appendicitis in patients older than 65 years. Material and Methods: A total of 61 patients with performed appendectomy older than 65 years age were included in this study. Laparoscopic and open appendectomies were included. Data were collected retrospectively. Patients were analyzed according to demograhic data, operative findings, complications and mortality. Results: Of 61 patients, 34 (55.7%) were male and 27 (44.3%) were female. The mean age was found to be 71.59 years. The average duration of symptoms were 3.2 days. Laparoscopic appendectomy was performed in only 4 (6.6%) patients. The mean hospital stay was found to be 3.89 days. Complications were found in 13 (21.3%) patients. Mortality was found to be 3.3%. Perforated appendicitis was found to be associated with physical findings, CRP level and hospital stay (p<0.05). Abdominal ultrasound has a sensitivity of 45.2% and specificity of 66.7% and computerized tomography has higher sensitivity (82.1%) and specificity (100%). Conclusion: Prompt diagnosis and treatment should be performed in the elderly patients with suspected appendicitis in order to prevent complications and mortality. Radiological modalities should be used to ensure accurate diagnosis of appendicitis in elderly patients.