Comparing selective imaging methods to routine imaging for suspected appendicitis

Protocol Based Selective Imaging Versus Routine Computed Tomography or Ultrasound in Suspected Appendicitis (PROSECCO)

NA · Helsinki University Central Hospital · NCT06083064

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

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment900 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorHelsinki University Central Hospital (other)
Locations3 sites (Espoo and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06083064 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adult patients who present with symptoms suggestive of appendicitis.

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.

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 performed: Other studies have shown promise in using selective imaging approaches, suggesting potential benefits in reducing unnecessary procedures.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Espoo and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Appendicitis

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.