Imaging Acute Appendicitis

Acute appendicitis is the most common entity requiring emergent abdominal surgery. Early diagnosis is critical to proper management. Patients often present with a classic clinical picture and may not require imaging, although many patients have nonspecific signs and symptoms. It is in these cases that imaging plays a large role. Imaging options include computed tomography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance. The following discussion addresses the different imaging modality options with regard to diagnostic performance, indications, and interpretation in patients with suspected acute appendicitis.