CompletedNot Applicable

CT Scan Using IV Contrast Alone for Pediatric Appendicitis

United States250 participantsStarted 2003-11

Plain-language summary

Computed tomography (CT) scan using intravenous contrast (CT IV) as the sole type of contrast material, was studied as one method of evaluating children with suspected appendicitis. We felt that this technique could provide physicians with a faster and better-tolerated alternative to CT imaging which involves patients drinking oral contrast or needing rectal contrast administered. SPECIFIC AIMS 1. To test an imaging protocol using CT IV for the evaluation of suspected appendicitis in children in the setting of a pediatric emergency department (ED). 2. To determine test performance characteristics (specificity, sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy) of CT IV in detecting appendicitis in children.

Who can participate

Age range

3 Years – 18 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * Age 3- 18 years * Signs/symptoms for \< 72 hours * CT Scan requested for evaluation by attending or fellow Exclusion Criteria: * Clinically apparent appendicitis * Pregnancy * Sickle Cell Disease * Known contrast allergy * Previous enrollment * Signs/symptoms for \> 72 hrs * Known abdominal disease (e.g. Crohn's) * Exam unreliable (neurologically impaired patient)

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

Sensitivity, Specificity, PPV, NPV for CT Scan with IV contrast alone

Timeframe: Study completion date

Trial details

NCT IDNCT00716703

SponsorUniversity of Rochester

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2005-10

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Appendicitis trials