The accuracy of sonographers in reporting abnormal ultrasound findings: A prospective study comparing sonographers' and radiologists' reports in 1000 hospital patients

Abstract

AbstractIntroductionThe aim of this study was to compare the ultrasound (US) findings independently reported by sonographers with final reports issued by radiologists in a complex working environment of an acute and inpatient US service in a large tertiary teaching hospital.MethodsThis study was a prospective review of 1000 unique hospital patients who received 1142 US examinations. Sonographers performed the requested examinations and reported their findings independently before consulting with radiologists. Radiologists reviewed the sonographers' findings, consulted with sonographers, and issued their final reports. Any disagreements between the findings of the sonographer and radiologist were captured, analysed and separated into errors or discrepancies according to commonly accepted definitions. Patient outcomes were determined from electronic clinical records.ResultsExaminations were performed by a team of 11 sonographers with a median of 9.5 years of experience and standard US qualifications. Sonographers independently reported 1484 abnormal findings in 268 categories. Radiologists were in complete agreement in 93.6% of cases, 5.3% cases included minor discrepancies and 1.1% of cases contained errors of which sonographers were responsible for 9 and radiologists 7. The severity of errors was comparable between sonographers and radiologists.ConclusionSonographers and radiologists demonstrate a high degree of agreement in reporting abnormal US findings. Sonographers and radiologists committed a comparable number of errors, and the error severity scores were also comparable. The customary, routine involvement of a radiologist in the second reading and reporting of all US examinations is unnecessary.