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CT is useful for identifying patients with complicated appendicitis.
K Tsukada1, T Miyazaki, H Katoh
1Department of First Surgery, Gunma University School of Medicine, 3-39-22 Showamachi, Maebashi 371-8511, Japan. katukada@topaz.ocn.ne.jp
Summary
Preoperative computed tomography effectively identifies complicated appendicitis. Key indicators include fat stranding and free fluid, aiding in accurate patient selection for surgery.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Complicated appendicitis requires accurate preoperative assessment.
- Identifying perforation, abscess, or peritonitis preoperatively is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of preoperative computed tomography (CT) in identifying patients with complicated appendicitis.
Main Methods:
- Helical CT with intravenous contrast was performed preoperatively on 94 appendectomy patients.
- Clinical factors and CT findings were compared between complicated (Compli(+)) and uncomplicated (Compli(-)) appendicitis groups.
Main Results:
- Fat stranding and free fluid on CT were significantly associated with complicated appendicitis.
- 70% of patients with fat stranding and free fluid had complicated appendicitis.
Conclusions:
- Preoperative CT is a powerful tool for identifying complicated appendicitis.
- Fat stranding and free fluid are significant CT indicators of complicated appendicitis.