“What imaging is used for appendicitis?”

Abdominal CT scan is the main imaging used for diagnosing appendicitis. To learn more, connect with me at drjeromepuryear.com. Thank you!

If people are thin enough ultrasound can be used initially, but CT is the gold standard.

Best imaging tools for appendicitis have changed over the years. In addition, different clinicians and radiologists follow their community‘s best methods with regard to workups. In the early ‘80’s physical exams and CT In the late ‘80’s and early ‘90’s new methods using Ultrasound improved that tool but CT was still the gold standard. In the 2000s and with the desire to decrease radiation exposure, ultrasound (when there is good local ultrasound experts) became a key tool used best with thinner patients and children. Groups such as Image Gently and Image Wisely would prefer an Ultrasound t (US) To be he first exam performed for appendicitis or its simulators. If abnormal the patient would be treated. If definitively normal the concern for appendicitis would be removed. If still confusing or in a heavy patient where the ultrasound analysis is more limited CT would be the best exam. Some individuals use MR which also has l no radiation exposure but is a long and costlier exam with lesser universal national expertise. I look with US .first.I would follow with CT with continued
concern..a confusing image without a definite diagnosis. Others look at CT first