1
|
Morin CE, Karakas P, Vorona G, Sreedher G, Brian JM, Chavhan GB, Chung T, Griffin LM, Kaplan SL, Moore M, Schenker K, Subramanian S, Aquino M. The Society for Pediatric Radiology Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Emergency and Trauma Imaging Committees' consensus protocol recommendation for rapid MRI for evaluating suspected appendicitis in children. Pediatr Radiol 2024; 54:12-19. [PMID: 38049531 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-023-05819-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
The imaging evaluation of acute abdominal pain in children with suspected appendicitis has evolved to include rapid abdominopelvic MRI (rMRI) over recent years. Through a collaborative effort between the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Emergency and Trauma Imaging Committees of the Society for Pediatric Radiology (SPR), we conducted a survey on the utilization of rMRI to assess practice specifics and protocols. Subsequently, we present a proposed consensus rMRI protocol derived from the survey results, literature review, and discussion and consensus between committee members.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cara E Morin
- Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital and University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
| | | | - Gregory Vorona
- Department of Radiology, The Children's Hospital of Richmond at Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, USA
| | | | - James M Brian
- Department of Radiology, Penn State Children's Hospital, Penn State Health, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, USA
| | - Govind B Chavhan
- Diagnostic Imaging Department, The Hospital for Sick Children and Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Taylor Chung
- UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland, Oakland, USA
| | | | - Summer L Kaplan
- Department of Radiology Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Michael Moore
- Department of Radiology, Nemours Children's Health, Wilmington, DE, USA
| | - Kathleen Schenker
- Department of Radiology, Nemours Children's Hospital, Wilmington, DE, USA
| | | | - Michael Aquino
- Section of Pediatric Imaging, Cleveland Clinic Imaging Institute and Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western University, Cleveland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lamm R, Kumar SS, Collings AT, Haskins IN, Abou-Setta A, Narula N, Nepal P, Hanna NM, Athanasiadis DI, Scholz S, Bradley JF, Train AT, Pucher PH, Quinteros F, Slater B. Diagnosis and treatment of appendicitis: systematic review and meta-analysis. Surg Endosc 2023; 37:8933-8990. [PMID: 37914953 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-023-10456-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The optimal diagnosis and treatment of appendicitis remains controversial. This systematic review details the evidence and current best practices for the evaluation and management of uncomplicated and complicated appendicitis in adults and children. METHODS Eight questions regarding the diagnosis and management of appendicitis were formulated. PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane and clinicaltrials.gov/NLM were queried for articles published from 2010 to 2022 with key words related to at least one question. Randomized and non-randomized studies were included. Two reviewers screened each publication for eligibility and then extracted data from eligible studies. Random effects meta-analyses were performed on all quantitative data. The quality of randomized and non-randomized studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 or Newcastle Ottawa Scale, respectively. RESULTS 2792 studies were screened and 261 were included. Most had a high risk of bias. Computerized tomography scan yielded the highest sensitivity (> 80%) and specificity (> 93%) in the adult population, although high variability existed. In adults with uncomplicated appendicitis, non-operative management resulted in higher odds of readmission (OR 6.10) and need for operation (OR 20.09), but less time to return to work/school (SMD - 1.78). In pediatric patients with uncomplicated appendicitis, non-operative management also resulted in higher odds of need for operation (OR 38.31). In adult patients with complicated appendicitis, there were higher odds of need for operation following antibiotic treatment only (OR 29.00), while pediatric patients had higher odds of abscess formation (OR 2.23). In pediatric patients undergoing appendectomy for complicated appendicitis, higher risk of reoperation at any time point was observed in patients who had drains placed at the time of operation (RR 2.04). CONCLUSIONS This review demonstrates the diagnosis and treatment of appendicitis remains nuanced. A personalized approach and appropriate patient selection remain key to treatment success. Further research on controversies in treatment would be useful for optimal management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Lamm
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sunjay S Kumar
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Thomas Jefferson University, 1015 Walnut Street, 613 Curtis, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA.
| | - Amelia T Collings
- Hiram C. Polk, Jr Department of Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Ivy N Haskins
- Department of Surgery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Ahmed Abou-Setta
- Centre for Healthcare Innovation, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Nisha Narula
- Department of Surgery, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Pramod Nepal
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nader M Hanna
- Department of Surgery, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | | | - Stefan Scholz
- Division of General and Thoracic Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joel F Bradley
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Arianne T Train
- Department of Surgery, Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, Lancaster, PA, USA
| | - Philip H Pucher
- Department of Surgery, Queen Alexandra Hospital, Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, Portsmouth, UK
| | - Francisco Quinteros
- Division of Colorectal Surgery, Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, Park Ridge, IL, USA
| | - Bethany Slater
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kim D, Woodham BL, Chen K, Kuganathan V, Edye MB. Rapid MRI Abdomen for Assessment of Clinically Suspected Acute Appendicitis in the General Adult Population: a Systematic Review. J Gastrointest Surg 2023; 27:1473-1485. [PMID: 37081221 PMCID: PMC10366263 DOI: 10.1007/s11605-023-05626-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To perform a systematic review on the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the abdomen to evaluate clinically suspected appendicitis in the general adult population. We examined the diagnostic accuracy, the reported trends of MRI use, and the factors that affect the utility of MRI abdomen, including study duration and cost-benefits. METHODS We conducted a systematic literature search on PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases. We enrolled primary studies investigating the use of MRI in diagnosing appendicitis in the general adult population, excluding studies that predominantly reported on populations not representative of typical adult appendicitis presentations, such as those focusing on paediatric or pregnant populations. RESULTS Twenty-seven eligible primary studies and 6 secondary studies were included, totaling 2,044 patients from eight countries. The sensitivity and specificity of MRI for diagnosing appendicitis were 96% (95% CI: 93-97%) and 93% (95% CI: 80-98%), respectively. MRI can identify complicated appendicitis and accurately propose alternative diagnoses. The duration of MRI protocols in each primary study ranged between 2.26 and 30 minutes, and only one study used intravenous contrast agents in addition to the non-contrast sequences. Decision analysis suggests significant benefits for replacing computed tomography (CT) with MRI and a potential for cost reduction. Reported trends in MRI usage showed minimal utilisation in diagnostic settings even when MRI was available. CONCLUSIONS MRI accurately diagnoses appendicitis in the general adult population and improves the identification of complicated appendicitis or alternative diagnoses compared to other modalities using a single, rapid investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongchan Kim
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, N.S.W. Australia
| | - Benjamin Luke Woodham
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, N.S.W. Australia
- Department of General Surgery, Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals, Blacktown Road, Blacktown, N.S.W. Australia
| | - Kathryn Chen
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, N.S.W. Australia
| | - Vinushan Kuganathan
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, N.S.W. Australia
| | - Michael Benjamin Edye
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, N.S.W. Australia
- Department of General Surgery, Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals, Blacktown Road, Blacktown, N.S.W. Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Babington EA. Complicated appendicitis in an adult patient. ULTRASOUND (LEEDS, ENGLAND) 2022; 30:333-337. [PMID: 36969532 PMCID: PMC10034650 DOI: 10.1177/1742271x221093727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Appendicitis is a common cause for emergency operations in the western part of the world, mostly affecting children and young adults. Ultrasound in well-trained hands is an effective imaging tool in making this diagnosis; however, this does not come without its challenges and potential complications. Case report This is a case of a 19-year-old male with one-day history of severe pain in the right iliac fossa; blood results showed raised inflammatory markers. Ultrasound revealed a large abnormal loop of bowel containing heterogeneously echogenic contents, and two large appendicoliths at the base and fundus, with the presence of free fluid in the right iliac fossa and oedema in the adjacent mesentery. Laparoscopic appendectomy confirmed the presence of severe appendicitis with generalised peritonitis and appendicolith. Histology revealed gangrenous appendicitis with perforation in two places. Discussion This case demonstrates that making a diagnosis of an inflamed appendix alone on ultrasound is not enough, and conducting a detailed assessment of the inflamed appendix and its surrounding anatomy is essential so that all the associated findings can be reported to aid in the patient management, reduce hospital stay and improve overall diagnosis and prognosis.
Collapse
|
5
|
D'Souza N, Hicks G, Beable R, Higginson A, Rud B. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2021; 12:CD012028. [PMID: 34905621 PMCID: PMC8670723 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012028.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Appendicitis remains a difficult disease to diagnose, and imaging adjuncts are commonly employed. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an imaging test that can be used to diagnose appendicitis. It is not commonly regarded as a first-line imaging test for appendicitis, but the reported diagnostic accuracy in some studies is equivalent to computed tomography (CT) scans. As it does not expose patients to radiation, it is an attractive imaging modality, particularly in women and children. OBJECTIVES The primary objective was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of MRI for detecting appendicitis in all patients. Secondary objectives: To investigate the accuracy of MRI in subgroups of pregnant women, children, and adults. To investigate the potential influence of MRI scanning variables such as sequences, slice thickness, or field of view. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, and Embase until February 2021. We searched the references of included studies and other systematic reviews to identify further studies. We did not exclude studies that were unpublished, published in another language, or retrospective. SELECTION CRITERIA We included studies that compared the outcome of an MRI scan for suspected appendicitis with a reference standard of histology, intraoperative findings, or clinical follow-up. Three study team members independently filtered search results for eligible studies. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We independently extracted study data and assessed study quality using the Quality Assessment of Studies of Diagnostic Accuracy - Revised (QUADAS-2) tool. We used the bivariate model to calculate pooled estimates of sensitivity and specificity. MAIN RESULTS We identified 58 studies with sufficient data for meta-analysis including a total of 7462 participants (1980 with and 5482 without acute appendicitis). Estimates of sensitivity ranged from 0.18 to 1.0; estimates of specificity ranged from 0.4 to 1.0. Summary sensitivity was 0.95 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.94 to 0.97); summary specificity was 0.96 (95% CI 0.95 to 0.97). Sensitivity and specificity remained high on subgroup analysis for pregnant women (sensitivity 0.96 (95% CI 0.88 to 0.99); specificity 0.97 (95% CI 0.95 to 0.98); 21 studies, 2282 women); children (sensitivity 0.96 (95% CI 0.95 to 0.97); specificity 0.96 (95% CI 0.92 to 0.98); 17 studies, 2794 children); and adults (sensitivity 0.96 (95% CI 0.93 to 0.97); specificity 0.93 (95% CI 0.80 to 0.98); 9 studies, 1088 participants), as well as different scanning techniques. In a hypothetical cohort of 1000 patients, there would be 12 false-positive results and 30 false-negative results. Methodological quality of the included studies was poor, and the risk of bias was high or unclear in 53% to 83% of the QUADAS-2 domains. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS MRI appears to be highly accurate in confirming and excluding acute appendicitis in adults, children, and pregnant women regardless of protocol. The methodological quality of the included studies was generally low due to incomplete and low standards of follow-up, so summary estimates of sensitivity and specificity may be biased. We could not assess the impact and direction of potential bias given the very low number of high-quality studies. Studies comparing MRI protocols were few, and although we found no influence of MRI protocol variables on the summary estimates of accuracy, our results do not rule out that some MRI protocols are more accurate than others.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Bo Rud
- Gastrounit, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre , Hvidovre, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Islam GMN, Yadav T, Khera PS, Sureka B, Garg PK, Elhence P, Puranik A, Singh K, Singh S. Abbreviated MRI in patients with suspected acute appendicitis in emergency: a prospective study. Abdom Radiol (NY) 2021; 46:5114-5124. [PMID: 34379149 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-021-03222-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the diagnostic performance of an abbreviated non-contrast MRI protocol in diagnosing acute appendicitis. METHODS Prospectively, a total of 67 consenting consecutive patients with clinical suspicion of acute appendicitis (Alvarado score ≥ 5) were evaluated with an abbreviated three-sequence non-contrast MRI protocol (axial T2WI, coronal T2WI, axial DWI) at a single tertiary care center. MRI was interpreted by two radiologists blinded to the clinical details, other investigations, and outcome of the patients. Diagnostic performance of MRI was determined using either histopathological examination (HPE) results as the reference standard in surgical cases (n = 39), or final clinical diagnosis at discharge and 3-months follow-up in non-operatively managed cases (n = 28). RESULTS Sixty-seven patients comprising 42 males, 25 females including 1 pregnant patient were enrolled (median age 24 years; age range 6-70 years). The median acquisition duration of the MRI protocol was 12.5 min. In the analysis of the complete cohort including both surgical and non-operatively managed cases (n = 67), MRI showed sensitivity of 93.3% (95% CI 81.7-98.6%), specificity of 86.4% (95% CI 65.1-97.1%), and diagnostic accuracy of 91.0% (95% CI 81.5-96.6%) (p < 0.001). In the subset of surgical cases with HPE as the reference standard (n = 39), MRI showed sensitivity of 97.1% (95% CI 84.7-99.9%), specificity of 100% (95% CI 47.8-100%), and diagnostic accuracy of 98% (95% CI 87.5-100%) (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION MRI may be performed to diagnose acute appendicitis or alternative causes of right iliac fossa pain. An abbreviated MRI protocol consisting of only three sequences without IV contrast, patient preparation, or antiperistaltic agents could shorten the examination duration while retaining diagnostic accuracy.
Collapse
|
7
|
Henrichsen TL, Maturen KE, Robbins JB, Akin EA, Ascher SM, Brook OR, Dassel M, Friedman L, Learman LA, Patlas MN, Sadowski EA, Saphier C, Wasnik AP, Glanc P. ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Postmenopausal Acute Pelvic Pain. J Am Coll Radiol 2021; 18:S119-S125. [PMID: 33958106 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacr.2021.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Acute pelvic pain is a common presenting complaint in both the emergency room and outpatient settings. Pelvic pain of gynecologic origin in postmenopausal women occurs less frequently than in premenopausal women; however, it has important differences in etiology. The most common causes of postmenopausal pelvic pain from gynecologic origin are ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, and ovarian neoplasm. Other etiologies of pelvic pain are attributable to urinary, gastrointestinal, and vascular systems. As the optimal imaging modality varies for these etiologies, it is important to narrow the differential diagnosis before choosing the initial diagnostic imaging examination. Transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasound are the best initial imaging techniques when the differential is primarily of gynecologic origin. CT with intravenous (IV) contrast is more useful if the differential diagnosis remains broad. MRI without IV contrast or MRI without and with IV contrast, as well as CT without IV contrast may also be used for certain differential considerations. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision include an extensive analysis of current medical literature from peer reviewed journals and the application of well-established methodologies (RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE) to rate the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where evidence is lacking or equivocal, expert opinion may supplement the available evidence to recommend imaging or treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Esma A Akin
- George Washington University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Susan M Ascher
- Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, Vice Chair of Research, Department of Radiology, Medstar Georgetown University Hospital
| | - Olga R Brook
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mark Dassel
- Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Director, Center of Endometriosis, Co-director, Chronic Pelvic Pain, Associate Program Director, Fellowship in Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery, Cleveland Clinic
| | - Lucas Friedman
- University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, American College of Emergency Physicians
| | - Lee A Learman
- Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, Virginia, American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Dean, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine
| | - Michael N Patlas
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, Editor-in-Chief, Canadian Association of Radiologists Journal
| | | | - Carl Saphier
- Women's Ultrasound, LLC, Englewood, New Jersey, American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
| | | | - Phyllis Glanc
- Specialty Chair, University of Toronto and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Unenhanced MRI of the Abdomen and Pelvis in the Comprehensive Evaluation of Acute Atraumatic Abdominal Pain in Children. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2020; 215:1218-1228. [PMID: 32901563 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.19.22577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study is to show the utility of rapid unenhanced MRI in the comprehensive assessment of acute atraumatic abdominal pain in children, including appendicitis and alternate diagnoses, and to review the MRI features of common acute abdominal and pelvic conditions in a large, single-institution cohort. CONCLUSION. Rapid unenhanced MRI is an excellent option for the initial, comprehensive evaluation of acute abdominal emergencies in pediatric patients because it can diagnose the full range of presenting abnormalities, including causes of abdominal pain warranting surgical and nonsurgical management.
Collapse
|
9
|
Hayatghaibi SE, Trout AT, Dillman JR. Value Assessment of Evolving Pediatric Appendicitis Imaging Strategies Between 2004 and 2018. J Am Coll Radiol 2020; 17:1549-1554. [PMID: 32866438 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacr.2020.03.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess diagnostic imaging utilization and the proportion of negative appendectomies for pediatric appendicitis at US children's hospitals between 2004 and 2018. METHODS This was a retrospective study using data from the Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) database. Pediatric patients (age: 0-17 years) who underwent an appendectomy at one of 32 children's hospitals from January 1, 2004, through September 30, 2018, were included. Patients were identified based on International Classification of Diseases, 9th revision and International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision procedure codes. Patient demographics, imaging performed, and the frequency of negative appendectomy were analyzed. RESULTS The final study population consisted of 104,033 children. From 2004 to 2018, CT utilization decreased from 56.8% (2,951 of 5,198) to 18.6% (1,201 of 6,455; P < .001). Ultrasound utilization increased from 26.4% (1,371 of 5,198) to 63.4% (4,093 of 6,455; P < .001). Radiography utilization remained stable at 16.7% (870 of 5,198) and 15.8% (1,018 of 6,455; P = .160). MRI use increased from 0.1% (6 of 5,198) to 2.2% (143 of 6,455; P < .001). During the study period, the negative appendectomy rate slightly decreased, from 3.74% (4,742 of 126,778 in 2004-2011) to 3.14% (4,258 of 135,561 in 2012-2018; P < .001). CONCLUSION There has been a shift in imaging of children with appendicitis over 15 years in the United States, because the use of CT has decreased and ultrasound use has increased. This shift has likely added value to the health care system without adversely affecting outcomes (negative appendectomy rate).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shireen E Hayatghaibi
- Department of Radiology, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas; University of Texas, School of Public Health, Houston, Texas.
| | - Andrew T Trout
- Director, Clinical Research, Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio; Department of Radiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Jonathan R Dillman
- Department of Radiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio; Associate Chief of Research, Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Utilization of computed tomography imaging in the pediatric emergency department. Pediatr Radiol 2020; 50:470-475. [PMID: 31807854 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-019-04564-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, there has been a movement toward more judicious use of computed tomography (CT) imaging in an attempt to limit exposure of pediatric patients to ionizing radiation. The Image Gently Alliance and like-minded movements began advocating for safe and high-quality pediatric imaging worldwide in the late 2000s. OBJECTIVE In the context of these efforts, we evaluate CT utilization rates in the pediatric emergency department at a major academic medical center. MATERIALS AND METHODS We tracked utilization in several categories of CT, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasonography (US) between July 2008 and June 2017 and compared them with utilization rates from 2000 to 2006. RESULTS A total of 4,955 pediatric patients underwent a total of 5,973 CT scans, 2,775 US studies and 293 MRI scans while in the pediatric emergency department during the 2008-2017 study period. We observed decreases in CT scans across all categories, ranging from a 19% decrease in abdominal CT to a 66% decrease in chest CT. Relatively greater decreases in CT scans were observed in patients younger than 3 years of age as compared to older children and adolescents. Abdominal and pelvic US increased. Brain MRI also increased over the final two years of the study. CONCLUSION CT utilization decreased throughout the 2008-2017 study period.
Collapse
|
11
|
Are We Doing Enough to Reduce Ionizing Radiation Exposure in Children?: An Analysis of Current Approaches to Pediatric Appendicitis Imaging at a Major Urban Medical Center. Pediatr Emerg Care 2020; 36:e222-e226. [PMID: 31274826 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000001882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate current imaging approaches in children with suspected appendicitis (AP) in the pediatric emergency department (ED) of a major urban medical center. METHODS Children aged 6 to 18 years who presented to a pediatric ED in 2016 with possible AP were identified by a keyword search. Charts were reviewed for the following: age, sex, time of evaluation, imaging study, results of imaging study, disposition, and outcome. RESULTS We calculated mean values and SD for continuous data. Initially, 503 charts were identified. Of these 503, 292 children were identified as having possible AP. Mean age was 10.7 years (SD, 2.7); 50.6% presented between 5:00 PM and 8:00 AM the next morning. Of the 287 US studies performed, 114 (39.7%) were definitively positive or negative. Of these, 46 (16.0%) were negative for AP and 68 (23.7%) were positive. There were 173 (60.3%) ultrasounds that were equivocal. Computed tomography scans were performed in 41 (13.9%) of the total 292 patients, and 2 (0.7%) of the 292 received magnetic resonance imaging. Patient dispositions were as follows: discharged home, 163 (55.8%); admitted for appendectomy, 69 (23.6%); admitted for observation, 37 (12.7%); and extended observation in ED, 10 (3.4%). There were 83 (28.4%) total surgical and interventional radiology cases and 209 (71.6%) nonsurgical cases. Of the 81 appendectomies, 79 (97.5%) had an abnormal appendix, and 2 (2.5%) had no AP. Of the 79 abnormal appendices, 22 (27.8%) were perforated, 55 (69.6%) were not, and 2 (2.6%) were unclear. CONCLUSIONS Computed tomography scans were performed in 13.9% of patients with suspected AP. The overall AP rate was 28.4%. We plan to increase the use of magnetic resonance imaging and other modalities to reduce overall computed tomography usage.
Collapse
|
12
|
Shen G, Wang J, Fei F, Mao M, Mei Z. Bedside ultrasonography for acute appendicitis: An updated diagnostic meta-analysis. Int J Surg 2019; 70:1-9. [PMID: 31404675 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijsu.2019.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
13
|
Inoue A, Furukawa A, Nitta N, Takaki K, Ota S, Zen Y, Kojima M, Akabori H, Ohta H, Mekata E, Saotome T, Murata K. Accuracy, criteria, and clinical significance of visual assessment on diffusion-weighted imaging and apparent diffusion coefficient quantification for diagnosing acute appendicitis. Abdom Radiol (NY) 2019; 44:3235-3245. [PMID: 31420704 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-019-02180-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the accuracy, criteria, and clinical significance of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) signal intensity and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) quantification for diagnosing acute appendicitis. METHODS Fifty-one patients with right lower abdominal pain [uncomplicated appendicitis (n = 25), complicated appendicitis (n = 10), and non-appendicitis (n = 16)] who underwent MR examination were enrolled in this retrospective study. Two radiologists independently measured appendiceal diameter and wall thickness. They assessed whether a wall defect, an abscess, extraluminal air, or an appendicolith was present on axial T2WI; evaluated intensity on DWI using a 5-point scale; and determined the ADC values of the appendix and peri-appendiceal tissue. Statistical analysis was performed to assess imaging findings for the diagnosis of appendicitis and complicated appendicitis. Cut-off values were determined using receiver operating characteristic analysis. RESULTS For diagnosing acute appendicitis, the accuracy improved from 78.4% using only T2WI to 86.3% using combined T2WI and DWI for reader 1 and from 82.4 to 86.3% for reader 2. For the appendix, the cut-off ADC values that diagnosed appendicitis were 1.41 × 10-3 and 1.26 × 10-3 mm2/s with accuracies of 78.4% and 76.5%, respectively. For the peri-appendiceal tissue, these values of 1.03 × 10-3 and 0.91 × 10-3 mm2/s differentiated between uncomplicated and complicated appendicitis with an accuracy of 97.1%. CONCLUSIONS Combined DWI and T2WI provided high accuracy for diagnosing appendicitis. The inflamed appendix had lower ADC value than the normal appendix. The peri-appendiceal tissue presenting low ADC value was a notable finding of complicated appendicitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akitoshi Inoue
- Department of Radiology, National Hospital Organization, Higashi-Ohmi General Medical Center, 255 Gochi-cho, Higashiomi, Shiga, 527-0044, Japan.
- Department of Radiology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta, Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, Shiga, 520-2192, Japan.
| | - Akira Furukawa
- Department of Radiological Science, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Higashi-Oku, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo, 116-0012, Japan
| | - Norihisa Nitta
- Department of Radiology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta, Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, Shiga, 520-2192, Japan
| | - Kai Takaki
- Department of Radiology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta, Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, Shiga, 520-2192, Japan
| | - Shinichi Ota
- Department of Radiology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta, Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, Shiga, 520-2192, Japan
| | - Yumi Zen
- Department of Surgery, National Hospital Organization, Higashi-Ohmi General Medical Center, 255 Gochi-cho, Higashiomi, Shiga, 527-0044, Japan
| | - Masatsugu Kojima
- Department of Surgery, National Hospital Organization, Higashi-Ohmi General Medical Center, 255 Gochi-cho, Higashiomi, Shiga, 527-0044, Japan
| | - Hiroya Akabori
- Department of Surgery, National Hospital Organization, Higashi-Ohmi General Medical Center, 255 Gochi-cho, Higashiomi, Shiga, 527-0044, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Ohta
- Department of Surgery, National Hospital Organization, Higashi-Ohmi General Medical Center, 255 Gochi-cho, Higashiomi, Shiga, 527-0044, Japan
| | - Eiji Mekata
- Department of Surgery, National Hospital Organization, Higashi-Ohmi General Medical Center, 255 Gochi-cho, Higashiomi, Shiga, 527-0044, Japan
| | - Takao Saotome
- Department of Emergency, National Hospital Organization, Higashi-Ohmi General Medical Center, 255 Gochi-cho, Higashiomi, Shiga, 527-0044, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Murata
- Department of Radiology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta, Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, Shiga, 520-2192, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Howell EC, Dubina ED, Lee SL. Perforation risk in pediatric appendicitis: assessment and management. PEDIATRIC HEALTH MEDICINE AND THERAPEUTICS 2018; 9:135-145. [PMID: 30464677 PMCID: PMC6209076 DOI: 10.2147/phmt.s155302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Perforated appendicitis, as defined by a visible hole in the appendix or an appendicolith free within the abdomen, carries significant morbidity in the pediatric population. Accurate diagnosis is challenging as there is no single symptom or sign that accurately predicts perforated appendicitis. Younger patients and those with increased duration of symptoms are at higher risk of perforated appendicitis. Elevated leukocytosis, bandemia, high C-reactive protein, hyponatremia, ultrasound, and CT are all useful tools in diagnosis. Distinguishing patients with perforation from those without is important given the influence of a perforation diagnosis on the management of the patient. Treatment for perforated appendicitis remains controversial as several options exist, each with its indications and merits, illustrating the complexity of this disease process. Patients may be managed non-operatively with antibiotics, with or without interval appendectomy. Patients may also undergo appendectomy early in the course of their index hospitalization. Factors known to predict failure of non-operative management include appendicolith, leukocytosis greater than 15,000 white blood cells per microliter, increased bands, and CT evidence of disease beyond the right lower quadrant. In this review, the indications and benefits of each treatment strategy will be discussed and an algorithm to guide treatment decisions will be proposed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erin C Howell
- Department of Surgery, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA,
| | - Emily D Dubina
- Department of Surgery, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA,
| | - Steven L Lee
- Department of Surgery, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA, .,Division of Pediatric Surgery, UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital, Los Angeles, CA, USA,
| |
Collapse
|