The role of radiological imaging in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis

Several strategies have been employed to improve the accuracy of the diagnosis of appendicitis and to reduce the associated perforation rate. Because clinical algorithms have been disappointing, many physicians resort to radiological modalities. Plain abdominal x-rays are nonspecific, barium enema examination has relatively low accuracy, scintigraphy scans require considerable time and are difficult to interpret, and magnetic resonance imaging is relatively unstudied. The most promising modalities are graded compression sonography and computed tomography. In expert hands, these techniques can achieve a high degree of accuracy. Nevertheless, most published studies have been marred by methodological difficulties. Moreover, ultrasound is more useful in detecting than in ruling out appendicitis. The radiological criteria for acute appendicitis, the accuracy of various imaging modalities and the limitations of the available research are described.