CT colonography of the normal appendix: detection and characterization

Abstract

To determine the ability of CT colonography to detect and characterize the normal appendix in adults. A total of 55 patients with CT colonography examinations are analyzed. Each observer detected an appendix in 48 cases (87%), with high interobserver concordance (kappa=0.679). The appendiceal diameter varied from 3 to 12 mm (mean 6.2 mm) with wall thickness uniformly 1 mm or less. Gas filled at least part of the appendiceal lumen in 37 cases (67%), more frequently in the prone position. Appendicoliths and periappendiceal stranding were seen in 2 and 1% of cases, respectively. An appendix can be reliably identified in approximately 87% of normal adults using CO₂-insufflation CT colonography.