Anatomy
What is the typical length of the appendix?
4 inches
Spell inflammation of the appendix
A P P E N D I C I T I S
What is inflammation of the appendix called?
Appendicitis
What kind of ultrasound transducer is used to scan the appendix? and what are the typical ranges of frequency?
Linear transducer
5-12 MHz
Function of the appendix is unknown
Where is the appendix located?
At the junction of the small intestine and large intestine
Can the normal appendix be regularly visualized when performing an ultrasound?
No, only a distended appendix will be.
A patient with appendicitis will have pain in what quadrant?
RLQ - right lower quadrant
Before performing an ultrasound of the appendix, the patient must be NPO for at least .... how many hours?
NPO for at least 6 hours
What kind of health problems are associated with the removal of the appendix?
None
What can sometimes be a good landmark for finding the appendix?
external iliac artery and vein
The criteria for diagnosing appendicitis states that the outer diameter of the appendix should be greater than
6 mm
What demographic is often the most affected by appendicitis?
Young adults
When scanning the appendix, what position is the transducer first placed?
Transverse
What is the surgical removal of the appendix called?
Appendectomy
Appendicular artery
Appendicitis will sometimes cause the presence of free fluid in
periappendiceal region
Will there be an increase of blood flow in a patient with appendicitis?
Yes
What's the reason pressure is placed on the RLQ with the transducer when scanning the appendix?
To displace bowel gas
Name 1 of the 2 theory's of function of the appendix.
•Appendix acts as a storehouse for good bacteria, “rebooting” the digestive system after diarrheal illnesses.
•The appendix is a useless remnant from our evolutionary past
Embryologically the appendix arises from the
midgut
What type of surgery will a surgeon most often perform to remove an inflamed appendix?
What is the best modality for diagnosing appendicitis?
CT
The point on the lower right quadrant of the abdomen at which tenderness is maximal in cases of acute appendicitis
McBurney's point
Does Lucy have an appendix?