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Open Access 01-12-2016 | Original Scientific Report

The Effect of Unenhanced MRI on the Surgeons’ Decision-Making Process in Females with Suspected Appendicitis

Authors: C. M. P. Ziedses des Plantes, M. J. F. van Veen, J. van der Palen, J. M. Klaase, H. A. J. Gielkens, R. H. Geelkerken

Published in: World Journal of Surgery | Issue 12/2016

Abstract

Background

This prospective study evaluated the impact of the results of unenhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on the surgeon’s diagnosis of acute appendicitis in potentially fertile females.

Methods

112 female patients, aged 12–55, with suspected appendicitis underwent MRI of the abdomen. At three defined intervals; admission and clinical re-evaluation before and after revealing the MRI results, the surgeon recorded the attendance of each patient in operative treatment, observation or discharge. Appendicitis was confirmed or declined by pathology or by telephone follow-up in case of non-intervention.

Findings

Appendicitis was confirmed in 29 of 112 patients. At admission the surgeon’s disposition had a sensitivity of 97 % and specificity of 29 %. After knowing the MRI results, sensitivity was 97 % and specificity 64 %. The sensitivity and specificity of MRI alone were 89 and 100 %, with a negative and positive predictive value of 96 and 100 %, respectively.

Conclusion

We believe that MRI should perhaps be standard in all female patients during their reproductive years with suspected appendicitis. It avoids an operation in 32 % of cases and allows earlier planning for patients with an equivocal clinical picture. Trial number: OND1292733 (Narcis.nl).

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Title: The Effect of Unenhanced MRI on the Surgeons’ Decision-Making Process in Females with Suspected Appendicitis
Authors: C. M. P. Ziedses des Plantes
M. J. F. van Veen
J. van der Palen
J. M. Klaase
H. A. J. Gielkens
R. H. Geelkerken
Publication date: 01-12-2016
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Published in: World Journal of Surgery / Issue 12/2016
Print ISSN: 0364-2313
Electronic ISSN: 1432-2323
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00268-016-3626-7

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

The Effect of Unenhanced MRI on the Surgeons’ Decision-Making Process in Females with Suspected Appendicitis

Abstract

Background

Methods

Findings

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Findings

Conclusion

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