Perforated appendix ultrasound

A perforated appendix is one of the complications of acute appendicitis. When appendicitis is left untreated, necrosis (gangrene) of the appendiceal wall can occur and progress to a focal rupture.
The rate of perforated appendix vary from 16% to 40%, with higher incidence in younger age group and in patients older than 50 years 9. Perforation can be due late and atypical presentation of appendicitis, delay in diagnosis, delayed decision for surgery, and age-specific physiological changes
Ultrasound
Although ultrasound is less accurate than a contrast-enhanced CT, the findings can be appreciated in experienced hands. Diagnosis of a perforated appendix relies mainly on demonstration of right iliac fossa abscess or phlegmon in association with signs of appendiceal inflammation and appendicolith.