Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 10, 2026

A Modified Sonographic Algorithm for Image Acquisition in Life-Threatening Emergencies in the Critically Ill Newborn
11:27

A Modified Sonographic Algorithm for Image Acquisition in Life-Threatening Emergencies in the Critically Ill Newborn

Published on: April 7, 2023

The approach to common abdominal diagnosis in infants and children

M S Irish1, R H Pearl, M G Caty

  • 1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Buffalo, New York, USA.

Pediatric Clinics of North America
|September 5, 1998
PubMed

Insights

This guide outlines evaluating abdominal pain in children, covering appendicitis, vomiting, constipation, and bleeding. It provides approaches for initial management and criteria for surgical referral in pediatric patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Clinical Pediatrics

Background:

  • Abdominal pain is a common pediatric complaint requiring systematic evaluation.
  • Differentiating surgical from non-surgical causes is crucial for timely intervention.
  • Specific patient populations (immunocompromised, neurologically impaired) present unique diagnostic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a focused approach to evaluating pediatric abdominal pain.
  • To highlight key conditions including appendicitis, gastrointestinal bleeding, and constipation.
  • To offer guidance on managing abdominal masses, urologic, and gynecologic issues in children.

Main Methods:

  • Review of salient points in pediatric abdominal pain evaluation.
  • Discussion of specific symptoms and conditions associated with abdominal pain.
  • Consideration of special populations and recurrent abdominal pain.

Main Results:

  • Logical, focused approaches to initial evaluation and management are established.
  • Criteria for timely surgical referral are suggested.
  • Addresses common abdominal masses, urologic, and gynecologic problems.

Conclusions:

  • A structured approach aids in the effective evaluation and management of pediatric abdominal pain.
  • Early identification of surgical emergencies like appendicitis is emphasized.
  • Consideration of underlying causes and patient-specific factors improves outcomes.

More Related Videos

An Approach to Point-Of-Care Ultrasound Evaluation of the Abdominal Aorta07:12

An Approach to Point-Of-Care Ultrasound Evaluation of the Abdominal Aorta

Published on: September 8, 2023

Caudal-to-cranial Approach in Laparoscopic Right Hemicolectomy with Complete Mesocolon Excision and D3 Lymph Node Dissection06:46

Caudal-to-cranial Approach in Laparoscopic Right Hemicolectomy with Complete Mesocolon Excision and D3 Lymph Node Dissection

Published on: January 9, 2026

Related Concept Videos

Assessment of the Abdomen III: Palpation01:23

Assessment of the Abdomen III: Palpation

Palpation is a crucial tactile examination method for assessing abdominal organs and detecting conditions like tenderness, distention, masses, or fluid. It involves both light and deep palpation techniques, each serving specific diagnostic purposes. Light palpation helps identify tenderness and other surface-level indicators, while deep palpation locates and assess abdominal masses and organ boundaries. A skilled professional can gather valuable insights through palpation, including evaluating...
Assessment of the Abdomen I: Inspection and Auscultation01:25

Assessment of the Abdomen I: Inspection and Auscultation

Introduction
The abdominal examination is a cornerstone of clinical medicine, serving as a critical tool in diagnosing various gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. It involves a systematic approach that includes inspection and auscultation, each with distinct yet complementary roles in assessing the abdomen. This article will delve into these two primary methods healthcare professionals use to examine the abdomen.
Inspection of the Abdomen
The first step in any abdominal examination is inspection.
Assessment of the Abdomen II: Percussion01:18

Assessment of the Abdomen II: Percussion

Percussion is a fundamental technique used to assess the liver, spleen, and abdominal organs by tapping the abdomen and interpreting the resulting sounds. This method helps identify fluid, distention, and masses through variations in sound, such as the high-pitched tympany of air-filled areas and the dullness of solid masses. Understanding how to percuss these organs provides valuable information for healthcare professionals in diagnosing conditions early.
Percussion
Percussion is an essential...
Appendicitis-I: Introduction01:22

Appendicitis-I: Introduction

The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management01:29

Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management

Diagnosing and managing appendicitis requires a structured and comprehensive approach that spans from initial assessment to postoperative care. Here is an overview of the process:
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
Ultrasound I: Abdominal Ultrasonography01:20

Ultrasound I: Abdominal Ultrasonography

Introduction:
Abdominal ultrasonography, commonly known as abdominal ultrasound, is a vital, non-invasive medical imaging technique widely used in healthcare.
Procedure:
This diagnostic tool allows the clinician to visually inspect internal structures within the abdomen, including vital organs such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, and spleen.
The abdominal ultrasound process begins with applying a special gel to the patient's skin over the abdomen. This gel enhances the...