The importance of accurate clinical information in requests for radiological examinations: a comprehensive analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Requests for radiological examinations are the first step in selecting patients to undergo radiological examinations. The range of radiological equipment, protocols, and examinations is very wide. Also, technological developments at very fast rates, as well as improvements in study protocols lead to innovations and updates in medical radiology. The starting point of this literature review study is our personal clinical experience, where we have often encountered requests for radiological examinations formulated without minimal clinical information. Purpose: This paper highlights the multifaceted benefits of having ample clinical information in order to select an optimal, widely accepted, and most importantly effective protocol to achieve the required imaging diagnosis. It is also of great importance for clinicians of various fields that their recommendations for radiological examinations can give the expected answers so that imaging diagnosis together with clinical and laboratory data reach an accurate diagnosis and optimal treatment for the patient. Methods: The selected sources were critically evaluated for their relevance and reliability in order to provide a complete perspective on the subject. The literature was selected on PUBMED and Medline. Results: From the several study groups that were engaged in finding data we found out that clinical information improved the accuracy of interpretation, clinical relevance, and confidence of reporting; however, reporting time was not substantially affected by the addition of clinical information. Conclusions: The findings of this literature review suggest that clinical information has a very positive impact on the correct selection of the examining protocol, on patient management, and most importantly on radiological reporting. It is in the best interest of radiologists and technicians to communicate the importance of clinical information as a very efficient tool for reporting examinations and to respond to radiological examination requests of referring clinicians as rigorously as possible. Further work is recommended to establish standards so that the requirements criteria for radiological examinations are specific, clear, and well-orientated across the wide range of examination techniques found in the diagnostic field.