Dear AuntMinnie Member,
An orthopedic surgeon says that radiology reports of pediatric knee MRI scans are so full of inaccuracies that referring physicians should read the images themselves to confirm the diagnosis.
The controversial study was conducted by an orthopedic surgeon who compared the accuracy of radiologist image interpretations with his own preoperative diagnoses, which were based on a review of patient history and analysis of MRI images. His own diagnostic accuracy was superior to that of the radiologists, according to the study results, which are featured in our Orthopedic Imaging Digital Community.
Not surprisingly, the study has fueled the ongoing debate over physician self-referral and who is best qualified to review imaging studies. Nonradiologist physicians cited the study in their testimony to the U.S. Congress last month against a proposal to restrict imaging reimbursement to accredited providers.
The same article also covers a related study criticizing the terminology used in radiology reports. The research found that certain terms with generally accepted meanings among radiologists are often confusing to referring physicians -- indicating that imaging specialists might have a communication problem on their hands.
Read about both studies by clicking here, or by visiting the Orthopedic Imaging Digital Community at orthopedic.auntminnie.com.
