Diagnostic Reading #21: Five “Must Read” Articles on Medical Imaging

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Fluoroscopic imaging in the NICU and improving patient “handoffs” are in the news.

This week’s articles in Diagnostic Reading include: a pilot to provide fluoroscopic imaging in the NICU; an AI program that predicts cancer risk; FDA guidance for safety in MRI rooms; how to improve patient ‘handoffs’ in radiology; and strategies on preparing radiology trainees.

Neonatal fluoroscopic imaging at the NICU bedside – Everything Rad

Montefiore Health System conducted an innovative pilot to provide fluoroscopic images in the NICU at comparable image quality and equivalent dose levels as in-room imaging. The study was performed with a modified DRX-Revolution in their neonatal intensive care unit. 

AI predicts lung cancer risk – Axis Imaging News

An artificial intelligence (AI) program accurately predicts the risk that lung nodules detected on screening CT will become cancerous, according to a study published in Radiology. Low-dose chest CT is used to screen people at a high risk of lung cancer, and while lung cancer typically shows up as pulmonary nodules, most nodules are benign and do not require further clinical workup. Therefore, accurately distinguishing between benign and malignant nodules is crucial to catch cancers early.

FDA issues final guidance for assessing medical device safety, compatibility in MRI rooms– Health Imaging

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration issued final guidance for assessing the safety and compatibility of medical devices within magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) environments, with recommendations applying to implanted devices, those fastened or carried by patients and devices that may enter MRI rooms during clinical care. Over the past few years, there have been several non-medical devices that elicited MRI warnings from imaging experts.

3 ways radiology can improve patient ‘handoffs’ – AuntMinnie

Radiology ‘handoffs’—transitioning patients to other departments or physician teams—are crucial to effective patient care, but there is room for improvement, according to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology. Communication errors around imaging choices, protocols, follow-up study recommendations and unclear written reports can not only endanger patients but also make radiologists vulnerable to litigation. This article includes three actions radiology departments can take to help ensure safe care transitions.

Preparing the next generation of radiologists – Health Management

Experienced radiology professionals shared their insight into the transition from residency and fellowship training to independent practice in an article recently published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology. One expert notes that training programs should consider five strategies to prepare their trainees for academic radiology, including encouraging academic career mentorship between trainees and faculty as well as expanding trainee leadership in radiology administration.

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