[Acute appendicitis: preference for second ultrasound instead of CT or MRI].

Objective: To assess whether additional CT or MRI, rather than a repeat ultrasound investigation, is the most appropriate diagnostic approach for patients with clinical suspicion of appendicitis following an inconclusive first ultrasound.

Design: Descriptive study.

Method: Retrospective data analysis of patients admitted to ER with clinical suspicion of acute appendicitis, on whom at least one ultrasonography had been performed.

Results: A total of 328 patients were included of which 81 patients had an inconclusive first ultrasonography. Twenty-five patients underwent a second ultrasound test, and in 17 patients a correct diagnosis could be made. The positive and negative predictive value of a second ultrasonography, following an inconclusive first one was 97% and 99% respectively.

Conclusion: Following an inconclusive first ultrasonography in patients suspected of having acute appendicitis, a second ultrasound after an observation period can be considered, rather than opting for additional CT or MRI imaging.