He also expressed concern about an inflammatory reaction to the report, and suggested that the analysis be regarded in context.

"Unfortunately the fallout is that patients see it on the news and are afraid to get chest X-rays. That really hurts patients," he said. "For an individual to make a decision they have to know why their doctor is ordering a test. Every patient should feel comfortable asking their doctor, is this something I really need? Every scan, blood test and procedure is expensive and has both negative and positive consequences. Patients are becoming more empowered to ask those tough questions and that is good."


The NEJM report was accompanied by an analysis called "Elements of Danger," documenting the growth in advanced imaging and the risks of medical scans. For example, as many as 2% of cancers may be attributable to radiation exposure during CT scans, writes Michael S. Lauer, M.D. of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, Bethesda, Maryland. He cautioned, "Most physicians who order imaging tests experience no consequences for incurring the costs for procedures of unproven value." He explained that referring a patient for imaging represents a direct danger. "Overall, we must conclude that with a few exceptions--such as mammography--most radiologic imaging tests offer net negative results." He recommended further studies to determine which procedures are beneficial.

DOTmed News will keep you posted on the medical imaging community's response to the report.

Read the RSNA statement here:
http://www.rsna.org/media/pressreleases/pr_target.cfm?ID=425

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