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Published on: September 22, 2023
Sonographic appearance of the normal appendix in adults
Koichi Yabunaka1, Toshizo Katsuda, Shigeru Sanada
1Graduate School of Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa, Japan. yabuchanok@yahoo.co.jp
Summary
Sonographic visualization successfully identified the normal adult appendix in 49.2% of asymptomatic patients. Factors like body mass index and abdominal wall thickness influenced visualization success.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Gastrointestinal Imaging
Background:
- The appendix is often difficult to visualize sonographically.
- Understanding visualization rates is crucial for diagnostic accuracy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the sonographic visualization rate of the normal adult appendix.
- To identify factors influencing appendix visualization.
Main Methods:
- Transabdominal sonography with tissue harmonic imaging was used.
- 788 asymptomatic adults were examined.
- Detection rate, diameter, content, and location were assessed.
Main Results:
- The normal appendix was visualized in 49.2% of patients.
- Appendiceal diameter averaged 4.27 mm.
- Pelvic location was most common (75%).
- Body mass index and abdominal wall thickness impacted visualization.
Conclusions:
- Sonography can visualize the normal adult appendix in a significant proportion of asymptomatic individuals.
- Factors like BMI and abdominal wall thickness are key determinants of visualization success.
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