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Published on: December 9, 2021

Enhanced multidetector-row computed tomography (MDCT) in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis and its severity

Tesshou Miki1, Seiji Ogata, Mitsunobu Uto

  • 1Department of Radiology, Sendai Citizen Hospital, Japan.

Radiation Medicine
|July 14, 2005
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Enhanced multidetector-row computed tomography (MDCT) accurately diagnoses acute appendicitis and its severity. This imaging technique offers high precision in differentiating appendicitis stages, aiding clinical decision-making.

Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Medical Imaging
  • Gastrointestinal Imaging

Background:

  • Acute appendicitis is a common surgical emergency.
  • Accurate diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications.
  • Multidetector-row computed tomography (MDCT) is increasingly used for abdominal imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of contrast-enhanced MDCT for acute appendicitis.
  • To assess MDCT's ability to determine the severity of appendicitis (catarrhal, phlegmonous, gangrenous).

Main Methods:

  • Contrast-enhanced MDCT scans of 23 control patients and 64 patients with surgically confirmed appendicitis were analyzed.
  • Key CT findings such as appendix diameter, wall enhancement, appendicolith presence, fat stranding, ascites, and abscess formation were recorded.
  • Image analysis included assessment of appendix morphology and position using thin-slice reconstructions.

Main Results:

  • MDCT differentiated normal appendices from acute appendicitis with 99% accuracy.
  • Accuracies for diagnosing appendicitis severity were: 92% for catarrhal, 84% for phlegmonous, and 92% for gangrenous.
  • High-resolution thin-slice MDCT enabled clear visualization of appendix form and position.

Conclusions:

  • Contrast-enhanced MDCT is a highly accurate tool for diagnosing acute appendicitis.
  • MDCT effectively determines the severity of acute appendicitis, guiding appropriate treatment strategies.

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