Use of FAST examination as a screening tool for BAI in the hemodynamically stable trauma patient results in underdiagnosis of intra-abdominal injury. This may have an impact on treatment and outcome in trauma patients. Hemodynamically stable patients with suspected BAI should undergo routine CT scanning.

We prospectively examined 103 consecutive adults (67 women, 36 men; mean age: 58.7 years) referred for abdominal and pelvic computed tomography (CT) in whom there was no history of right lower quadrant symptoms or appendectomy. Contiguous 5-mm CT images through the pericecal region were obtained in each subject, once routine scanning was completed. Three radiologists reviewed all CT images and reached a consensus on appendiceal visualization and the quantity of intraperitoneal fat. Statistical methods were applied to the collected data to seek significant associations between a visualized appendix and the following factors: patient age, sex, intraperitoneal fat grade, and the presence of oral contrast in the cecal lumen. The appendix was definitely visualized in only 45 of the 103 patients (43.7%). Analysis of variance revealed no statistically significant correlation between a CT-demonstrated appendix and the four variables examined. The clinical implications of these findings are discussed.