Appendix

Appendix
 

• Rao PM, Rhea JT, Novelline RA, et al [ Massachusetts Gen Hosp, Boston] 
  Effect of Computed Tomography of the Appendix on Treatment of Patients and Use of Hospital Resources
  N Engl J Med 338: 141-146, 1998
     
  Missing appendicitis was discovered in 20% and an unwanted surgery in as much as 15%-40% of patients. 100 patients between 6 and 75 years were subjected to computerised tomography [CT] on admission upon a diagnosis of appendicitis. On the surgical table 53 had CT proved diagnosis of the disease while 47 had a different disease. CT negativity was seen in 45 of this group. 1 false negative and 1 false positive were noted thus giving a break up of the 47 patients with an alternative disease.
      
  CT scan is a useful procedure in diagnosis of appendicitis and unwanted surgery can be avoided.