Appendix Ultrasound
Appendix ultrasound is a swift, safe, and noninvasive imaging technique that evaluates the appendix using sound waves. This test might be ordered if someone is having abdominal pain and the radiologists want to determine if the symptoms are caused by appendicitis.
By using a special ultrasound probe, this test can visualize internal body structures to ionizing radiation (X-rays). Ultrasound has no known harmful side effects, and it is a fast, noninvasive way for doctors to evaluate soft tissues that don’t show up on standard X-ray exams. This technique is especially useful to visualize the appearance, size, consistency, and shape of internal organs and abnormalities.
How does Ultrasound work?
The ultrasound probe, also called a transducer, releases small pulses of high-frequency sound waves. When pressed against the skin, the transducer transmits the sound waves that bounce off structures in the body. The transducer picks up the rebounding sound waves, and, with the help of a computer, the characteristics of a structure can be determined.
When is an Appendix ultrasound recommended?
If anyone is having abdominal pain, especially in the lower right side, there is a chance that appendicitis is causing the pain. The appendix is a small, finger-like extension of the large intestine. If the appendix gets infected and inflamed, it can cause symptoms such as:
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Abdominal bloating
If someone is having these symptoms, an ultrasound might be proposed to rule out appendicitis as the cause.
Which ultrasound is for the Appendix?
How is appendicitis diagnosed and evaluated? Several tests can be used to evaluate appendicitis: Abdominal or pelvic ultrasound may be performed. Ultrasound is a type of imaging exam that uses sound waves to create pictures of the inside of the abdomen and/or pelvis.
