Benefits of CT for Abdominal Pain in the ER
Much discussion about the use of CT scanning and the associated radiation exposure has been occurring across the healthcare industry. The emerging policy is to minimize the use of this imaging approach. Data presented at the 2008 American Roentgen Ray Society meeting highlighted the utility of abdominal CT, in particular, in the emergency room setting. The news was posted by Diagnostic Imaging.
Researchers presented data that validates use, indicating that benefits associated with completion of abdominal CT outweigh potential risks. The tool is associated with excellent diagnostic confidence and can streamline workflow in the busy emergency room setting.
Data was collected through a trial completed at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). When an abdominal CT was ordered, ER doctors completed pre- and post-exam questionnaires. Information completed was differential diagnosis, level of confidence in the primary condition suspected, and the plan to manage patient’s disease.
Findings indicated that management plans were altered in approximately 75 percent of the 515 total patients recruited. The level of certainty in their diagnosis cited by doctors before CT was 60 percent, but increased to 92 percent after review of images. One quarter of planned admissions became discharges after CT was completed.
This data highlights the utility of CT in the emergency room. Benefits associated include a reduction in unnecessary admissions to the hospital, avoiding potentially unsafe discharges, and overall aiding in patient management. Additionally, as cited already, it increases clinician confidence in their diagnostic determination. All of these improve overall care quality in this setting for patients with abdominal pain.
April 29, 2008 Related topics: Imaging, Diagnostic, Emergency