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Published on: September 8, 2023
[Diagnosis of appendicitis using harmonic ultrasound imaging]
B Hülsse1, O Rompel, K Bodenschatz
1Klinik für Kinderchirurgie, Klinikum Nürnberg Süd. bhuelsse@hotmail.com
Introduction:
Harmonic Imaging (HI) is a new Ultrasound (US) modality with high contrast and spatial resolution. Aim of this study was to compare fundamental imaging (FI) and HI in the diagnosis of appendicitis.
Patients And Methods:
In 50 children (male : female, 25 : 25; mean age: 9.9 years) prior to an appendectomy US of the right lower quadrant was performed in both FI and HI (Tissue Harmonic Imaging - THI - Sonoline Elegra, Siemens, 7.5 MHz linear). The images were compared with respect to delineation of surrounding, contour, wall and content of the appendix.
Results:
In 43 / 50 (86 %) patients diagnosis of appendicitis was confirmed histologically (sensitivity 98 %, specificity 94 %). In 37 / 43 patients the appendix was depicted using FI. With HI this number was 40 / 43. HI was significantly better in delineating the contour, wall, mucosa and content of the appendix (p < 0.01). HI also exceeded in demonstrating free fluid, mesenterial lymph nodes and surrounding echogenicity.
Conclusion:
HI of appendicitis provides images with significantly better quality than FI. When both imaging options are available harmonic imaging modality should be the preferred choice for scanning the appendix.
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