MRI Accurately Diagnoses Acute Appendicitis in Select Pediatric Patients

In centers where magnetic resonance imaging is readily available, it may be incorporated into the algorithm for diagnosing appendicitis when ultrasounds are indeterminate.

Computed tomography (CT) is currently the first-line imaging modality for suspected acute appendicitis. Avoidance of CT scans is preferable in children, as this test carries the risks associated with ionizing radiation. Ultrasound has recently been incorporated into diagnostic algorithms for appendicitis but often yields indeterminate results. As magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become increasingly accessible in many emergency departments, some institutions have incorporated MRI into their algorithms.

This retrospective study included 402 patients aged 18 years or younger who underwent abdominal MRI for suspected acute appendicitis in an institution where MRI was used as first-line imaging for appendicitis in pediatric patients. MRI had …

Reviewing Author

Lauren M. Westafer, DO, MPH, MS

Disclosures

Grant/Research SupportNational Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Editorial BoardsAnnals of Emergency Medicine

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAcademy for Academic Women in Emergency Medicine (Social Media Chair)

Lauren M. Westafer, DO, MPH, MS

Disclosures

Grant/Research SupportNational Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Editorial BoardsAnnals of Emergency Medicine

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAcademy for Academic Women in Emergency Medicine (Social Media Chair)

MRI Accurately Diagnoses Acute Appendicitis in Select Pediatric Patients

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Reviewing Author