Comparing selective imaging methods to routine imaging for suspected appendicitis
Official title: Protocol Based Selective Imaging Versus Routine Computed Tomography or Ultrasound in Suspected Appendicitis (PROSECCO)
Run by Helsinki University Central Hospital · NCT06083064 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if using specific imaging methods based on symptoms can help adults suspected of having appendicitis get better care compared to standard imaging methods.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 900 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Helsinki University Central Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 3 sites (Espoo and 2 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 15, 2023 |
| Main results expected | May 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | May 31, 2029 |
| Registry record updated | September 18, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06083064 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are adult patients who present with symptoms suggestive of appendicitis.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who have had imaging done within the last 72 hours or those with other clinical conditions that require imaging may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of protocol-based selective imaging compared to routine imaging methods in adult patients suspected of having appendicitis. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: one receiving selective imaging based on the Adult Appendicitis Score, another undergoing selective observation combined with imaging, and a third group receiving routine imaging via ultrasound or CT. The study will assess whether these selective approaches lead to better clinical outcomes, such as reducing the number of unnecessary appendectomies or complications. The goal is to determine if a more tailored imaging strategy can improve patient care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate diagnoses and fewer unnecessary surgeries for patients with suspected appendicitis.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using selective imaging approaches, suggesting potential benefits in reducing unnecessary procedures.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: \- Suspicion of appendicitis Exclusion Criteria: * Time from symptom onset over 72 hours * Age \<18 years * Pregnancy, ruled out by serum or urine HCG measurement in 18- to 49-year-old women * CT-scan or ultrasound already done within the last 3 days (72 hours) * Clinical suspicion of other disease or other reason to perform imaging study * Recruited earlier to the same trial
Where it's running
-
HUS, Jorvi Hospital
Espoo, Finland Recruiting -
HUS, Meilahti Hospital
Helsinki, Finland Recruiting -
HUS, Hyvinkää Hospital
Hyvinkää, Finland Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Panu Mentula, MD — Helsinki University Central Hospital
- Study coordinator: Panu Mentula, MD
- Email: panu.mentula@hus.fi
- Phone: 504270183
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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How PEG bowel preparation affects gut bacteria in people with or without an appendix
This observational study will test whether polyethylene glycol colonoscopy prep changes gut bacteria differently in adults who have had an appendectomy compared with those who have not.
-
Closing the appendix stump with clips versus ties during laparoscopic appendectomy
This study tests whether using metal clips or tying sutures to close the appendix stump during laparoscopic appendectomy leads to fewer complications and lower costs for people with acute appendicitis.
-
Global assessment of appendicitis management outcomes
This study looks at how appendicitis is treated in hospitals around the world to see if improvements can be made for all patients needing surgery.
-
Using Fitbit to detect infections in children after appendectomy
This study tests if using Fitbit data can help doctors spot infections early in children recovering from appendix surgery.
-
Comparing Ketorolac and Morphine for Pain Relief in Children with Appendicitis
This study is testing if ketorolac can help relieve pain just as well as morphine in children aged 6-17 who might have appendicitis.
-
Same Day Ambulatory Appendectomy
This study tests whether doing appendectomies on the same day without an overnight hospital stay can safely help people with uncomplicated appendicitis feel better and improve their overall care experience.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.