Journal of Medical Diagnostic Methods
Open Access

Abstract

MRI for Suspected Appendicitis in Pregnancy

Wang CH, Hsieh YR, Kuo YT

Aim: Acute appendicitis is the most common disease in pregnant women. Based on the premise of the protection of fetus, diagnosis sometimes would be difficult. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the risk and benefit of magnetic resonance imaging for suspected acute appendicitis in Pregnancy.

Method: From Oct 2015 to Apr 2017, 10 pregnant women came to our emergency department because of suspected acute appendicitis. We bring MRI to participate the diagnosis in case ultrasound is insufficient to make accurate detection.

Result: 5 cases with nonvisualization of appendicitis and 5 cases were confirmed acute appendicitis. Ultrasound of these women couldn't clearly show the abnormal anatomy. But with non-radiation MRI acute appendicitis with presence of appendicoliths were identified.

Conclusion: The use of MRI in pregnant women with suspected acute appendicitis is meaningful, not only in confirmation or exclusion of appendicitis but also alternative non-radiation diagnosis tool for further treatment.