Summary
This retrospective study aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of different diagnostic modalities, including computed tomography (CT), ultrasonography (US), and laparoscopy, in patients with suspected acute appendicitis (AA). The analysis included 887 laparoscopic procedures performed for suspected AA, with 254 patients undergoing preoperative imaging. Laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) had a higher sensitivity (98%) compared to CT (94%). LA also exhibited greater specificity, especially in cases of complicated appendicitis and in female patients.
The study found that laparoscopy was effective in achieving an early and accurate diagnosis of AA, potentially reducing the incidence of perforated appendicitis. Abdominal CT remained a valuable diagnostic tool, while diagnostic laparoscopy was considered useful in the early stages of diagnosis, particularly for young women, to avoid unnecessary radiation exposure.
