Incidence and Management of Appendicitis in Pregnancy

Epidemiological Data

• Pregnant women accounted for only 1 in 20 women of childbearing age presenting with appendicitis, confirming that pregnancy itself does not increase susceptibility, as reported by the American College of Radiology 1

Diagnostic Approach

• The American College of Radiology recommends MRI as the preferred imaging modality when ultrasound is inconclusive 1
• Initial ultrasound is diagnostic in approximately 58% of pregnant patients; delayed repeat ultrasound during observation can increase diagnostic yield without compromising maternal or fetal safety, according to the World Journal of Emergency Surgery 3
• Surgery should be performed within 24 hours of diagnosis to minimize perforation risk and adverse outcomes, as suggested by the World Journal of Emergency Surgery 3