Abstract

ObjectivesTo assess the current state of hybrid imaging in Europe with respect to operations, reading and reporting, as well as qualification and training.MethodsThe first survey (LOCAL) was sent to the heads of the departments of radiology and nuclear medicine in Europe in 2017, including 15 questions regarding the organisation of hybrid imaging operations, reporting strategies for PET/CT and the existence of relevant training programmes. The second survey (NATIONAL) consisted of 10 questions and was directed to the national ministries of health of 37 European countries addressing combined training options in radiology and nuclear medicine.ResultsIn the LOCAL survey, 61 valid responses from 26 European countries were received. In almost half of the institutions, hybrid imaging was performed within a single department, mainly in nuclear medicine departments (31%). In half of the centres (51%), PET/CT reports were performed jointly, while in 20% of the centres, reporting was performed by nuclear medicine physicians. Radiologists were responsible for presenting hybrid imaging results in clinical boards in 34% of responding sites. Integrated hybrid imaging training was available in 41% sites. In the NATIONAL survey, responses from 34 countries were received and demonstrated a heterogeneous landscape of official training possibilities in radiology and nuclear medicine with limited opportunities for additional qualifications in hybrid imaging.ConclusionsThe results of these surveys demonstrate a notable heterogeneity in the current practice of hybrid imaging throughout Europe. This heterogeneity exists despite the general consensus that strong professional cooperation is required in order to ensure high clinical quality and to strengthen the clinical role of hybrid imaging.

Highlights

  • Over the past two decades, hybrid imaging has evolved into a diagnostic standard in oncological imaging

  • While the technical aspects of hybrid imaging have been resolved to a high degree, its operating procedures are still under debate

  • LOCAL survey In total, 1361 invitations to participate in this survey were sent by e-mail

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Summary

Introduction

Over the past two decades, hybrid imaging has evolved into a diagnostic standard in oncological imaging. The quality of structural and functional information provided by hybrid imaging modalities in vivo is unparalleled and opens perspectives for highly accurate diagnostics in the era of precision medicine. While the technical aspects of hybrid imaging have been resolved to a high degree, its operating procedures are still under debate. These debates evolve around essential aspects, such as the use of standardised imaging protocols, diagnostic or organ localising CT, the adoption of an efficient image analysis and the pursuit of standard reporting strategies, as well as the need for integrated training and education options

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