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US features of the normal appendix and surrounding area in children
Fraukje Wiersma1, Alexandr Srámek, Herma C Holscher
1Department of Radiology, Juliana Children's Hospital, Sportlaan 600, the Hague, The Netherlands. fwiersma80@hotmail.com
Radiology
|May 26, 2005
Summary
Ultrasonography (US) successfully visualized the normal appendix in 82% of asymptomatic children. This study details the US appearance of the appendix in pediatric patients without suspected appendicitis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Radiology
- Gastrointestinal Imaging
- Diagnostic Ultrasound
Background:
- Accurate visualization of the appendix using ultrasonography (US) is crucial for diagnosing appendicitis.
- Understanding the US appearance of a normal appendix in children is essential for differentiating it from pathological conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively determine the frequency of appendix depiction via US in children without clinical suspicion of acute appendicitis.
- To characterize the US appearance of a normal appendix in this pediatric population.
Main Methods:
- 146 children without clinical suspicion of appendicitis underwent US examination.
- Measurements included outer diameter, mural thickness, and color Doppler flow of the appendix.
- Statistical analysis explored relationships between appendix dimensions and patient demographics.
Main Results:
- The appendix was visualized in 82% of asymptomatic children.
- Mean appendix diameter was 0.39 cm and mean mural thickness was 0.18 cm.
- No significant correlation was found between appendix dimensions and patient age, weight, or height.
Conclusions:
- Ultrasonography is effective in depicting the normal appendix in a high percentage of asymptomatic children.
- The study provides reference values for normal appendix US appearance in pediatric patients.