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What is McBurney?

Published in Anatomy & Diagnosis 2 mins read

McBurney's point is a specific location in the lower right abdomen used to help diagnose appendicitis.

Locating McBurney's Point

McBurney's point is located approximately one-third of the distance from the anterior superior iliac spine (the bony prominence on the front of your hip) to the umbilicus (belly button). In simpler terms, it's about two inches from your right hip bone, in a straight line toward your belly button.

Significance in Appendicitis

This point is significant because it is the most common location of maximal tenderness in patients suffering from acute appendicitis. When a doctor presses firmly on McBurney's point and the patient experiences sharp pain, it is a strong indicator of possible appendicitis. This tenderness is due to the inflammation of the appendix irritating the parietal peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity) in that specific area.

How It's Used in Diagnosis

During a physical examination for suspected appendicitis, healthcare professionals will palpate (press on) different areas of the abdomen, including McBurney's point. Pain elicited at McBurney's point, along with other symptoms and findings (like fever, elevated white blood cell count, and nausea), increases the likelihood of appendicitis. However, it's important to note that not all patients with appendicitis will have tenderness at McBurney's point, and other conditions can cause tenderness in that area. Therefore, it's just one piece of the diagnostic puzzle.

McBurney's Incision

Historically, and sometimes still today, McBurney's point is also the location where an incision might be made for an open appendectomy (surgical removal of the appendix). This incision, also known as a McBurney's incision or a gridiron incision, follows the natural skin lines, potentially resulting in better cosmetic outcomes. Nowadays, laparoscopic appendectomies are more common, using smaller incisions.

In summary, McBurney's point is a key anatomical landmark used in the diagnosis of appendicitis and, historically, as the location for surgical incisions for open appendectomy.