Low-dose Contrast Media for Low-kVp Abdomen CT

Optimizing Low-dose Contrast Media Protocol for Low-kVp Abdominopelvic CT in Suspected Acute Appendicitis

The purpose of this clinical study is to test the performance of low radiation dose abdominal CT combined with low dose contrast media for the diagnosis of acute appendicitis in young patients. The main questions to be answered are:

1, Can low-dose contrast media paired with low-dose radiation CT of the abdomen provide acceptable diagnostic accuracy in acute appendicitis? 2. How much radiation dose can be saved by using low radiation dose abdominal CT in combination with low dose contrast media?

Inclusion criteria:

• Patients in the emergency department with suspected acute appendicitis based on clinical examination
• Patients scheduled for contrast-enhanced CT of the abdomen and pelvis for diagnosis of suspected acute appendicitis.

Exclusion criteria:

• Patients who decline to participate
• Contraindications to contrast-enhanced CT (eGFR < 30 mL/min/173 m^2 or pregnant)
• BMI >= 30.