Written Observations as a Part of Computed Tomography Angiography Post Processing by Medical Radiation Technologists: A Pilot Project

Abstract

BackgroundA facility faced a local backlog of computed tomography angiography (CTA) results. During post processing, technologists review the CTA images and may consider pathology demonstrated. This is an excellent scenario for a clinical observation as part of an advanced practice role. Method and MaterialsFive hundred seventeen CTA examinations were performed during the project period. The medical radiation technologist post processed and included observations for 78 CTA examinations. The impact on the timely release of results was considered. The analysis compared the time frame from actual scan completion to results transcribed for both CTA examinations processed and reported by a radiologist only versus those post processed with written observations by the technologist. Evaluations against both a small pool of two radiologists as well as a larger pool of five radiologists are included. Radiologists involved with the project completed a stakeholder evaluation form. ResultsThe five radiologist groups' mean time to results (TTR) was 7.77 days. The CTAs with written observations had a mean TTR of 14.73 days. The two radiologist groups had a mean time to results of 19.69 days. Thus, the CTAs with the written observations provide some efficiency in timely results when compared with a smaller radiologist workforce.