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Contrast-Enhanced Abdominal MRI for Suspected Appendicitis: How We Do It

Sonja Kinner1, Michael D Repplinger2, Perry J Pickhardt1

  • 11 Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine & Public Health, 600 Highland Ave, Madison, WI 53792-3252.

AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|April 12, 2016
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

This study explores magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for diagnosing appendicitis in patients with abdominal pain. It highlights MRI’s benefits and challenges compared to CT and ultrasound.

Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Medical Imaging
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Nontraumatic abdominal pain is a common presentation.
  • Appendicitis diagnosis can be challenging.
  • Imaging modalities like CT and ultrasound have limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe contrast-enhanced abdominal MRI for suspected appendicitis.
  • To share experience on MRI's advantages, pearls, and pitfalls.
  • To compare MRI with CT and ultrasound in this setting.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized contrast-enhanced abdominal MRI.
  • Focused on patients with nontraumatic abdominal pain and suspected appendicitis.
  • Compared MRI findings with CT and ultrasound data.

Main Results:

  • MRI offers valuable insights into appendicitis.
  • Specific advantages and potential challenges of MRI were identified.
  • Typical cases of appendicitis and alternative diagnoses were illustrated.

Conclusions:

  • MRI is a viable imaging option for suspected appendicitis.
  • Understanding MRI's nuances is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
  • MRI aids in differentiating appendicitis from other abdominal conditions.
Keywords:
CTMRIabdominal imagingappendicitisimaging protocols

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