Patterns of CT referrals among physicians in the South-South region of Nigeria

Abstract

This study is aimed at determining the patterns of CT referral and hence its utilization by physicians in the South-South region of Nigeria within a 2year period. Despite its vast clinical applications, Computed Tomography scan is not readily available in developing countries like Nigeria, and awareness of its clinical applications based on anecdotal evidence is rather poor among physicians. A total of 450 scans were referred made up of 273 males (60.66%) and 177 females (39.33%).Majority of patients were within the age range of 4150 years representing 20.4% of all referrals. Brain CT is the most frequently requested with intracranial hematoma as the most common finding. The majority of all scans taken within this period were referred by neurosurgeons 43.1% (194), followed by general practitioners 33.33% (150). Analysis of clinical indications showed hematoma to be the highest reason for Brain CT referrals 17.4%(47; thoracic mass for chest CT, 37.5% and abdominal pain (21.3%) for Abdominal CT referral. Abnormal findings were identified in 25% of all brain CT’s performed and 40% of all other cases studied for the rest of the body. The study showed a relatively poor referral rate of CT among physicians in the SouthSouth region of Nigeria. This study recommends proper sensitization of doctors on the wide clinical applications of CT, an improved Health insurance scheme to ensure better access to modern diagnostic tools by patients ,as well as training of radiographers and doctors on the clinical utilization of CT scan results.