Diagnostic Reading #30: Five “Must Read” Articles on HIT and Radiology

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New developments in diagnostic imaging technology are in the news.

This week’s articles in Diagnostic Reading include: radiology groups consolidate in light of increasing demands and underfunding; first human is imaged with novel 3D color X-ray scanner in New Zealand; increasing high-resolution imaging scans are contributing to more accidentally discovered abnormalities; radiographers and patients know they must discuss imaging risks; and internal medicine residents can play an important role in assessing patient needs.

Radiology groups consolidate en masse in light of increasing demands, underfunding –  Radiology Business

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With seven of the country’s 20 most prominent radiology practices having completed business deals within the last 18 months, the field is witnessing more efforts to consolidate and conserve resources than perhaps ever before.

First human imaged with novel 3D color X-ray scanner in New Zealand – Health Imaging

A 3D color medical scanner invented by father and son scientists in New Zealand recently imaged its first human subject. The MARS spectral X-ray scanner can capture enhanced detail of the body’s chemical components—such as fat, water, and disease markers—by measuring the X-ray spectrum to produce images in color. Producing more detailed images than MRI or CT may allow physicians to better identify and diagnose diseases.

More imaging can mean more ‘incidentalomas,’ treatment for often-benign findings – Health Imaging

Advanced imaging tests may be providing as much patient anxiety as diagnostic relief, according to a Reuters Health report. A research review suggests increasing high-resolution imaging scans are contributing to more accidentally discovered abnormalities, “or incidentalomas,” that are unrelated to a patient’s diagnosis and can often be benign.

Radiographers, patients know they must discuss imaging risks—but what is the best method? – Health Imaging

Researchers found that radiographers and patients generally agree on the need to communicate the risks associated with medical imaging examinations that use ionizing radiation, according to research published in the August issue of Radiography. Not surprisingly, human interaction was the preferred method for providing the risk information to a patient.

Internal medicine residents can better assess patient needs with in-home visits – Clinical Innovation + Technology

New research from the Boston University School of Medicine suggests internal medicine residents who visited patient in their homes after hospital visits can better assess needs. The visits also emphasized the role community services and agencies play in avoiding readmissions.

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