Evaluation of the acute abdomen

Evaluation of the acute abdomen in infants and children can be challenging. The symptoms are often non-specific and the majority of conditions are self-limiting. However, it is important to identify the serious life-threatening causes of the acute abdomen and to refer these patients to the appropriate speciality to expedite definitive treatment. We review a structured approach to assessment and define the management of some of the more serious acute abdominal conditions seen in children such as intussusception, appendicitis and malrotation/volvulus.