Retained barium in appendix refers to the presence of barium in appendix beyond 72 hours from the start of procedure.
Proposed significance
Previously used as a sign of appendicitis.
Actual significance
Retained barium outlining the appendiceal lumen allows evaluation of its width and contour. These details can be utilized for follow examinations and can then be correlated with clinical findings.
On follow-up examinations changes that can occur in the appendix in case of inflammation are:
- increase in width
- irregularity of its contour
Comparison with the previous film is essential.
For all practical purposes, during an emergency, ultrasound is the modality of choice for diagnosing acute appendicitis.
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