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Abstract
Background:
Appendicular mass is a common complication of acute appendicitis, and its optimal management remains debated. Early surgical exploration may provide definitive treatment and reduce hospital stay, complications, and the need for interval surgery.
Objective:
To determine the outcomes of early exploration in patient presenting with appendicular mass.
Methods:
This descriptive study was conducted at the Department of Surgery, Ghulam Muhammad Mahar Medical College, Sukkur, over six months. A total of 178 patients aged 18–65 years with appendicular mass and ASA I–III were included. All patients underwent clinical and CT evaluation, followed by early surgical exploration. Demographic, clinical, operative, and postoperative data were recorded. Patients were followed for 30 days to assess outcomes including wound infection, readmission, and duration of hospital stay. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 24, with p ≤ 0.05 considered significant.
Results:
Among 178 patients undergoing early exploration, the mean hospital stay was 3.6 ± 1.2 days, wound infection occurred in 10.1%, and overall mortality was 5%. Most patients resumed normal activities within 8.3 ± 2.6 days, with low readmission (3.9%) and re-operation (2.2%) rates.
Conclusion:
Early exploration of appendicular mass is safe and effective, providing definitive treatment in a single admission with minimal morbidity and rapid recovery, though high-risk patients require careful perioperative assessment.