In the absence of a distinctly visualized appendix and secondary inflammatory changes, the incidence of acute appendicitis is low. Nonvisualization of the appendix even when a small amount of fat is present in the right lower quadrant may safely exclude acute appendicitis if no secondary CT findings are present.

What does it mean when your appendix is not visualized?

In the absence of direct visualization of the appendix without secondary signs of appendicitis on graded compression ultrasound, there is a low incidence of appendicitis. Further evaluation with CT examination should be reserved for those cases in which an alternate diagnosis is considered.

What does non diagnostic ultrasound mean?

Ultrasound (also termed sonography, ultrasonography, and Doppler study) is a non-invasive diagnostic medical technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images (sonogram) of the internal structures of the body. These sound waves are not detectable by human hearing.