Appendix ultrasound is a targeted sonographic examination used primarily to evaluate for acute appendicitis, the most common abdominal surgical emergency. Using graded compression technique, sonographers identify the appendix as a blind-ending tubular structure in the right lower quadrant, measuring its outer wall diameter (>6 mm is abnormal), wall thickness, compressibility, and surrounding inflammatory changes including periappendiceal fat echogenicity and free fluid. Appendix ultrasound is the preferred first-line imaging modality for suspected appendicitis in children and pregnant women to avoid ionizing radiation. Visualization success depends on patient body habitus, operator experience, and bowel gas. A non-visualized appendix must be reported as inconclusive, and CT or MRI may be recommended for further evaluation.
Body Location: Appendix
Medical Specialty: Emergency Medicine
Related Credentials: RDMS (AB), RDMS (PS)