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CT of appendicitis in children
Michael J Callahan1, Diana P Rodriguez, George A Taylor
1Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
Radiology
|July 31, 2002
Summary
Diagnosing appendicitis in children is difficult, but helical computed tomography (CT) significantly improves accuracy. This imaging technique reduces unnecessary surgeries and lowers costs for pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Appendicitis is the most common surgical emergency in children, but diagnosis is challenging, especially in young children.
- Missed diagnosis rates for acute appendicitis in children under 12 range from 28-57%, and nearly 100% in those under 2.
- Diagnostic imaging plays a crucial role in the accurate and timely diagnosis of pediatric appendicitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a helical computed tomography (CT) imaging approach for children with suspected appendicitis.
- To evaluate the impact of this helical CT approach on patient outcomes and hospital costs.
Main Methods:
- Helical computed tomography (CT) with rectally administered contrast material was used as the primary diagnostic tool.
- The study was conducted at a large urban pediatric teaching hospital.
Main Results:
- Helical CT is a highly sensitive and specific tool for diagnosing pediatric appendicitis.
- This approach led to a beneficial change in patient care for 68.5% of patients.
- It reduced inpatient observation days, negative laparotomies, and per-patient costs.
Conclusions:
- Helical CT with rectal contrast is effective in diagnosing appendicitis in children.
- This method aids in diagnosing alternative causes of abdominal pain and improves patient care.
- The study highlights the significant role of helical CT in managing pediatric appendicitis.