Background: Acute appendicitis is one of the most common causes of acute abdomen requiring emergency surgical intervention. Despite advancements in diagnostic and surgical techniques, variability in clinical presentation and outcomes persists, particularly in resource-limited settings. Objectives: To assess the clinical profile of patients with acute appendicitis and evaluate diagnostic modalities and management outcomes in a tertiary care hospital in North India. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted from April 2012 to January 2013 in a tertiary care hospital. A total of 150 patients diagnosed with acute appendicitis were included using consecutive sampling. Data on demographic characteristics, clinical presentation, laboratory and imaging findings, intraoperative observations, and postoperative outcomes were collected using a structured proforma. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 20.0, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The majority of patients were aged 20–39 years with male predominance. Right iliac fossa pain was present in all cases, while nausea/vomiting, anorexia, and fever were common associated symptoms. Leukocytosis was observed in most patients, and ultrasonography was diagnostic in the majority. Surgical management was performed in 94.7% of patients, predominantly by open appendectomy. Intraoperative findings revealed uncomplicated appendicitis in most cases, with a notable proportion of complicated cases. Postoperative complications occurred in 19.7% of patients, with surgical site infection being the most common. A significant association was found between complications and prolonged hospital stay (p<0.001). Conclusion: Acute appendicitis commonly affects young adults and presents with variable clinical features. Early diagnosis and timely surgical intervention are crucial in preventing complications. Strengthening diagnostic approaches and optimizing management strategies can improve patient outcomes.

Acute appendicitis; Clinical profile; Appendectomy; Postoperative complications; Tertiary care hospital; India