Unenhanced computed tomography for normal appendix detection: comparison of low-dose with statistical iterative reconstruction and regular-dose with filtered back projection

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the differences in visualization of a normal appendix between regular-dose (RD) and low dose (LD) unenhanced Cr. Material and methods: 179 patients underwent both RDCT and LDCT for urolithiasis. Two reviewers evaluated the appendiceal visualization on a three-point scale. Sensitivities and interobserver agreement were measured. Results: There were no significant differences between RDCT and LDCT in sensitivity, regardless of the reviewer. interobserver agreement was excellent in both RDCT and LDCT. Conclusion: Unenhanced LDCT is a good tool for detecting a normal appendix and is also useful for less experienced interpreters who are unfamiliar with using LDCT images. (C) 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.