What is the cost of interrupting a radiologist?
A study finds that interrupting radiologists does not reduce diagnostic accuracy but changes their focus and increases time spent on cases, with more time spent on dictation screens.
Radiology
Articles tagged with Radiology
Interactive virtual reality enhances physicians' treatment planning of complex conditions
A new study shows that interactive virtual reality (VR) technology improves accuracy and confidence among interventional radiologists when treating complex conditions like splenic artery aneurysms. The VR platform provides a 3D view of internal anatomy, allowing physicians to better plan their approach.
New study finds less research being published by female radiologists
Despite significant increases in female radiology research, rates of publication have leveled off since 2000. The proportion of female authors in top radiology journals has increased, but progress remains slow.
Imaging plays key role in evaluating injuries at Olympics
A new study published in Radiology found that imaging services played a crucial role in managing Olympic athletes with sports-related injuries and disorders. The study showed that MRI was used for nearly 60% of all imaging performed for diagnosis, highlighting its importance in fast and relevant diagnoses.
Emergency CT for head trauma may be overused, study shows
A study presented at the ARRS 2018 Annual Meeting found that emergency patients are often given unnecessary head CT scans, leading to radiation exposure and healthcare costs. Motor vehicle accidents were associated with a higher rate of non-indicated CT examinations.
Patients lack information about imaging exams
A study found that patients and caregivers seek information on their own after receiving inadequate pre-examination information from providers. RadiologyInfo.org is an online resource providing detailed information on medical imaging procedures and preparation.
Full integration of digital breast tomosynthesis reduces false positive rates, study shows
A study found that full integration of digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) significantly reduced false positive rates in breast cancer screening exams. DBT was also associated with a higher cancer-detection rate compared to traditional digital mammography.
Measurements from 3-D augmented reality holographic models shown to be highly accurate
Measurements taken on projected augmented reality holographic models are highly accurate, rivaling traditional 'gold standard' methods. The study's results demonstrate the potential of AR technology for educational, training, and research purposes.
Machine learning techniques generate clinical labels of medical scans
Researchers trained machine learning models on radiologist reports to identify clinical concepts in CT scans, achieving an accuracy of 91%. This technology will help develop artificial intelligence to diagnose diseases and improve patient care.
Mark Griswold, PhD elected 2017 Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors
Dr Mark Griswold PhD has been elected as a fellow of the National Academy of Inventors for his highly prolific spirit of innovation in creating outstanding inventions that have made a tangible impact on quality of life and economic development. He is renowned for pioneering research and innovations in biomedical imaging.
Emergency radiologists see inner toll of opioid use disorders
A high prevalence of complications related to opioid use disorders has been seen in emergency radiology patients, with skin and soft tissue infections, respiratory issues, and back pain being common. Imaging results often provided critical information to aid management plans and reduce mortality rates.
Hip steroid injections associated with bone changes
A new study presented at the Radiological Society of North America meeting found that hip steroid injections are associated with a higher incidence of bone death and collapse compared to control groups. The research showed that 22-24% of patients who received hip injections developed osteonecrosis, while 15-17% experienced bone collapse.
Minimally invasive treatment provides relief from back pain
A new image-guided pulsed radiofrequency treatment has shown extraordinary results in relieving low back pain and sciatica. The procedure involves inserting a probe to deliver energy to the affected area, resolving herniation without thermal damage, and patients were largely pain-free within a day.
Radiologists detect injury patterns of intimate partner violence
A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital reveals common clinical and radiologic patterns indicative of intimate partner violence (IPV) in radiology images. Radiologists can identify soft tissue injuries, extremity fractures, and facial fractures to spark a conversation with referring physicians about potential IPV.
Radiology offers clues in cases of domestic abuse and sexual assault
A study presented at the Radiological Society of North America annual meeting found characteristic injuries among patients referred to domestic abuse and sexual assault programs. These injuries, including soft tissue injuries and extremity fractures, can alert radiologists to potential intimate partner violence. The findings suggest a ...
Manganese-based MRI contrast agent may be safer alternative to gadolinium-based agents
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed a potential alternative to gadolinium-based contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The new manganese-based agent Mn-PyC3A produced comparable image enhancement to the standard of care with rapid clearance and less likelihood of toxicity. The study used a baboon...
Infrared imaging better than touch at detecting defects in protective lead aprons
Researchers found infrared imaging to be more accurate than tactile inspection in detecting defects in lead aprons used to shield patients from radiation exposure. The technology reduces ionizing radiation exposure for inspectors and can identify smaller holes that may be missed through visual inspection.
Studies reveal characteristics of bone and tendon injuries incurred by Olympic athletes
Studies found that female athletes in track and field experienced more bone stress injuries and tendon abnormalities than other Olympic events. Researchers recommend early MRI imaging for early detection of bone stress reactions and pre-competition screening data for chronic lesion detection.
What's next for nuclear medicine training?
Collaborative nuclear medicine and radiology training options are proposed to address evolving practice needs, while an alternative view emphasizes the importance of independent training programs. Innovative theranostics advances in nuclear medicine are highlighted as a result of dedicated training programs.
Study examines characteristics of mobile mammography patients
Researchers found significant differences between mobile mammography patients and those at a cancer center, including higher recall rates and racial diversity. The study aims to develop targeted programs to increase screening rates among underserved populations.
Under-reporting of vertebral fractures by radiologists: A missed opportunity
A study found that less than half of detectable vertebral fractures are reported by radiologists, particularly in non-musculoskeletal radiologists. This under-reporting can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis, increasing the risk of future hip fractures.
AJR study: Musculoskeletal extremity imaging use among Medicare population climbs sharply
The study found that utilization rates for musculoskeletal extremity imaging modalities increased significantly between 1994 and 2013, with MRI experiencing an initial period of rapid growth. The four most common modalities - radiography, ultrasound, MRI, and CT - saw increases in volume and per-beneficiary utilization.
Lifelike 3-D cinematic imaging promises numerous medical uses
Cinematic rendering technology produces photorealistic 3D images from CT and MRI data, enhancing medical education, patient-physician communication, and early disease detection. The technique has potential applications in surgical planning and improves physician-patient relationships.
As more adults are diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, radiologists look for patterns
As more adults are diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, radiologists must monitor the disease's complex and heterogeneous spectrum. The condition affects approximately 70,000 people worldwide, with up to 7% of cases diagnosed in adulthood, often with subtle manifestations.
Improved imaging of neonatal soft-tissue tumors can help radiologists improve patient care
Practical imaging evaluation of neonatal soft-tissue tumors is crucial for accurate diagnosis, and clear understanding of imaging techniques can improve patient outcomes. Characteristic clinical and imaging findings aid in diagnosing these neoplasms, which may require biopsy or excision for definitive diagnosis.
New research could help humans see what nature hides
Researchers at UT Austin discovered systematic laws for perception in natural scenes, predicting object detection based on background properties. This finding has potential applications in radiology, security imaging, and camouflage design.
Radiologists seek greater involvement in patient care
A survey of radiologists found that while they agree on the importance of patient-centered care, current practices are hindered by time and workload constraints. Social media and integrating reading rooms into clinics offer opportunities for better communication with patients.
New ultrasound scoring system for thyroid nodules to reduce unnecessary biopsies
A new ultrasound scoring system has been developed to identify thyroid nodules that require biopsy or follow-up. The system uses a risk stratification approach to classify nodule appearance and size, reducing unnecessary biopsies and improving cancer diagnosis accuracy.
Study looks at needles in treatment for shoulder pain
A new study has investigated the use of one-needle versus two-needle procedures for ultrasound-guided irrigation in treating rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy. The results showed that using two needles was more efficient for hard calcifications, while one needle was sufficient for fluid calcifications.
At annual meeting, SNMMI recognizes new fellows for distinguished service
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging recognized seven new SNMMI Fellows for their distinguished service and exceptional achievements in the field. The fellows include past SNMMI presidents, renowned experts, and leaders in nuclear medicine and molecular imaging.
Martin G. Pomper, MD, PhD, receives SNMMI Paul C. Aebersold Award in nuclear medicine
Pomper is recognized for his work on developing new imaging agents targeting cancer and central nervous system processes. He oversees several federally funded programs at Johns Hopkins, advancing the field of molecular imaging.
Beyond broke bones, CTs also detect frailty and predict survival
A new study suggests that CT scans can be used to detect core muscle frailty in elderly patients with hip fractures, predicting survival rates and guiding treatment decisions. The research found that patients with better core muscle had significantly better survival rates over a 10-year period.
Follow-up imaging is less when radiologists read ED ultrasounds
A recent study found that follow-up imaging is significantly less when initial emergency department (ED) ultrasound examinations are interpreted by a radiologist rather than a nonradiologist. Radiologists interpret the vast majority of ED ultrasounds, with 81.6% of cases handled by them and 36,788 cases handled by nonradiologists.
Gold medalists announcements top ARRS Annual Meeting festivities
The American Roentgen Ray Society (ARRS) honors Norman J. Beauchamp Jr. and Robert A. Novelline for their contributions to medical imaging research and clinical practice. These gold medalists are recognized for their work in developing advanced MRI imaging techniques and advancing trauma diagnosis.
Artificial intelligence may help diagnose tuberculosis in remote areas
Researchers trained AI models to identify TB on chest X-rays, achieving a 96% accuracy rate. The models' performance was improved when combined with expert radiologist interpretation, increasing the diagnosis accuracy to nearly 99%.
New research finds substantial increase in CVI procedures in medicare population
A new study found a substantial increase in CVI procedures in the Medicare population between 2005 and 2014. Cardiology saw the most rapid growth in market share, while vascular surgeons and other specialists also increased their services.
Quest for balance in radiation leads to lower doses
A new study at the University of California found that assessing and comparing radiation doses across hospitals can lead to significantly lower doses for common CT scans. The project resulted in substantially lower radiation doses for chest and abdominal scans, as well as more consistent radiation doses for head scans.
Tomographic imaging advances considered good yet can lead to overdiagnosis in PE patients
Recent advancements in tomographic imaging have improved V/Q scan sensitivity for pulmonary embolism (PE), but also risk revealing small, clinically insignificant PEs. This can lead to overtreatment and defensive medicine practices in the US healthcare system.
Physician adherence to clinical decision tools suggests potential benefit to PE patients
A review paper suggests that clinical decision tools can influence pulmonary CTA use and yield, with physician nonadherence being a major obstacle. The study found that validated rules and integrated CDS systems can help appropriate use of CTAs, but further investigation is needed.
Claims-based classification system could facilitate payer identification of academic radiologist sub
A new study validates a novel classification system for identifying academic radiologists' subspecialties using Medicare claims data. The system correctly classified 90% of radiologists and has potential to improve value-based payment models.
Artificial intelligence virtual consultant helps deliver better patient care
A machine learning application powered by artificial intelligence has been developed to provide evidence-based answers to frequently asked questions in interventional radiology. The system enables real-time communication between clinicians and patients, improving the quality of care.
Nonsurgical treatment for enlarged prostate remains effective for years
Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive treatment that reduces urinary tract symptoms in men with enlarged prostates, with an 89% cumulative success rate at short-term evaluation. Long-term follow-up shows 78% cumulative success rates, making it a viable option for patients exploring alternatives to open surgery.
Minimally invasive, less expensive treatment for uterine fibroids underutilized
A nationwide study shows that uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is vastly underutilized compared to hysterectomies, despite its lower costs and shorter hospital stays. UFEs result in substantial cost savings ($12,000) and faster recovery times compared to hysterectomies.
Innovative treatment offers relief to children with frequent migraine headaches
A minimally invasive treatment for migraine headaches has been shown to be safe and effective in children and teenagers, providing quick pain relief within minutes. The treatment reduces the need for medications with serious side effects, allowing kids to return to school sooner.
FDG PET/CT found useful in certain lung cancer patients
A recent study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that FDG PET/CT is a valuable imaging tool for treating lung cancer patients, especially when clinical suspicion or evidence of disease recurrence or metastasis is present. However, its routine use without clinical suspicion should be discouraged until its value fo...
National dose levels established for 10 common adult CT examinations
Researchers developed patient-size based diagnostic reference levels and achievable doses for 10 common CT head, neck and body examinations. The study found that using national benchmarks can reduce overall radiation dose and encourage facilities to optimize protocols.
Follow-up imaging significantly less when initial ED ultrasound is interpreted by radiologists than
Researchers found that ED patients with ultrasounds interpreted by nonradiologists underwent more follow-up imaging studies, with a mean increase of 1.08, 1.22, and 1.34 procedures within seven, fourteen, and thirty days respectively.
New research examines patients' satisfaction with their radiologists
Most US radiologists receive favorable satisfaction scores from their patients, according to a new study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology. The study analyzed over 1,800 reviews and found that patients tend to have either strongly positive or strongly negative opinions about their radiologists.
Society of Interventional Radiology Foundation to bestow annual awards
The Society of Interventional Radiology Foundation will bestow annual awards to recognize innovators and researchers in the field. Dr. Riad Salem will receive the Leaders in Innovation Award for his pioneering work on yttrium-90 radioembolization, while Terence Gade will receive the Dr. Gary J. Becker Young Investigator Award for his p...
Patients face 'surprise' medical bills from out-of-network specialists
New research reveals that patients are often surprised with medical bills four-to-six times higher than expected when they see out-of-network specialists, despite not choosing them. The study finds that anesthesiologists and other specialists charge significantly more than Medicare pays for similar services.
New research examines trends in radiology journal publications relating to patient-centered care
Recent years have seen a substantial increase in articles within radiology journals addressing patient-centered care, with only a limited number of journals publishing multiple original research articles. The study identified four journals that had published more than one original research article on the topic.
New Neiman Health Policy Institute reports examine MACRA's impact on radiologists
The reports found that CMS' proposed criteria for special considerations would result in many radiologists being evaluated using measures not reflective of their practice. Alternative criteria could help ensure fair opportunities for success in performance review under MIPS.
Study finds state tort reforms linked to decreases in radiography utilization
New research from the Harvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute finds that state tort reforms are associated with a decrease in physician ordering of radiographs. The study examined the impact of liability pressure on overall imaging use and found that indirect tort reforms have a stronger effect on radiography orders than direct reforms.
Radiologists positioned to detect elder abuse but additional training and research needed
A study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that radiologists may be uniquely positioned to detect elder abuse due to their role in identifying injury patterns. However, most diagnostic radiologists have limited training or experience in this area, and all participants reported missing cases of elder abuse.
The good and bad of MRI evaluation of the urothelial tract
MR urography (MRU) offers an alternative to CT urography (CTU) for whole urinary tract imaging. However, proper technique is crucial, with steps needed to ensure adequate distention and visualization of the entire system.
Patients receiving CD for atraumatic headache in ER less likely to return within 30 days
A retrospective observational study found that patients receiving CT scans for atraumatic headaches in the emergency room were less likely to return within 30 days. The study suggests that CT scans may provide reassurance to patients, preventing return ED visits.
Short-term sleep deprivation affects heart function
A study published by the Radiological Society of North America found that short-term sleep deprivation in 24-hour shift workers can lead to significant increases in cardiac contractility, blood pressure, and heart rate. The researchers also observed increased levels of stress hormones and thyroid hormones.
New research explores patients' satisfaction with their radiologists
A new study using national patient ratings website data found that most US radiologists receive favorable satisfaction scores from their patients. The study also showed that radiologists in the Northeast scored lower than those elsewhere, and online reviews tend to be strongly positive or negative.
Pioneers in IVC filter removal
Interventional radiologists at Rush University Medical Center have developed methods to remove filters that previously couldn't be removed, achieving a 100% retrieval rate. The team uses specialized tools and medical expertise to perform minimally invasive procedures.
New Neiman Institute study evaluates national trends in enteral access procedures
A study by the Harvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute found a decline in new enteral access procedures for Medicare patients over the past two decades. Meanwhile, maintenance services increased, with radiologists and emergency physicians surpassing gastroenterologists and surgeons as leading providers.