The Role of MRI in Reducing Paediatric Negative Appendicectomy Rates in Children Under 18 Years Old: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

MRI demonstrates high diagnostic accuracy and is associated with low negative appendicectomy rates in children. Its use is particularly effective where ultrasound/clinical findings are inconclusive as MRI overcomes ultrasound limitations, poor appendix visualisation, operator-dependence, and inability to exclude alternate diagnoses. Given its radiation-free nature and CT-like diagnostic performance, wider adoption of MRI within paediatric appendicitis pathways may help avoid surgery and reduce exposure to ionising radiation.