Training Of Technologists Research Articles

Optimization of Epilepsy Program Procedures With Linear Programming

The goal of comprehensive epilepsy centers (CECs) is to diagnose and treat individuals with epilepsy and other episodic disorders. To do this, epilepsy specialists rely upon electroencephalographic (EEG) techniques. EEG is a central component of CECs, providing critical information for the diagnosis and management of patients with seizure disorders. Additionally, EEG is a critical revenue generator for epilepsy programs, allowing for sustained growth and expansion programs in most institutions. This study uses a linear programming model to determine optimal allocation of EEG resources within a CEC, specifically considering volumes of inpatient routine EEG, outpatient EEG, and inpatient Video-EEG monitoring. The study demonstrates that the most significant contributor to overall revenue to the program was available EEG technologist hours. This finding suggests that CECs should prioritize programs related to increased EEG technologist training, recruitment, and retention to maintain and expand revenue and procedure volume.

A Comprehensive CT Radiation Dose Reduction and Protocol Standardization Program in a Complex, Tertiary Hospital System

PurposeTo present our experience in reducing CT radiation doses in a complex tertiary health system through CT protocol standardization and optimization. MethodsA CT radiation task force was created to reduce CT protocol heterogeneity and radiation doses. Redundant protocols were eliminated. By an iterative process, protocols with least radiation dose were identified. Radiation dose tracking software was used to store and analyze radiation doses. CT protocols were published in an intranet site after training of technologists. SOPs were established for maintaining and changing protocols. The radiation doses for each CT protocol before and after optimization were compared using geometric means. ResultsA total of 222 CT protocols were reviewed, with elimination of 86 protocols. One-year follow-up showed homogeneous protocols with lower radiation doses. The improvement in radiation doses ranged from 23% to 58% (P< 0.001). ConclusionCT radiation dose reduction of up to 58% can be achieved by homogenizing and optimizing CT protocols through a comprehensive CT operations program.

Desarrollo de habilidades creativas de los estudiantes como consecuencia del uso de herramientas TIC

The following quasi-experimental research of quantitative, descriptive and comparative order aims to establish the relational existence (status, factors and significant differences) between the use of a 3D CAD modeling ICT tool and the creative skills developed by students of the SENA Mechatronic Automotive Maintenance Technologist training program. A sample composed of two groups (Experimental and Control) was established with a previous test (Pretest ECG), followed by stimulation or treatment to the Experimental group (3D CAD modeling intervention) and to the Control Group without stimulus. A subsequent test (Postest ECG) was finally performed. According to the evaluated indicators by the ECG instrument, the subjects who worked with 3D CAD modeling developed the creative skills associated with the evaluated indicators: elaboration (El), thematic connectivity (Ct), expansive connectivity (Ce), fantasy (Fa), graphic ability (Hg), sense of humor (Sh) and graphic fluidity (Fg). The total score (Pt), is not considered as an indicator of ECG’s graphical ability, but provides a holistic perspective of the results obtained from the tests, where an increase in the mean could be seen, indicating that the use of 3D CAD modeling develops creative skills in individuals.

Breast Imaging and Image-guided Intervention in Tanzania: Initial Experience.

Breast imaging capacity in Tanzania is currently very limited. In a country of almost 60 million people, mammographic units are exceedingly rare. The few existing units are compromised by lack of maintenance and quality control and extremely limited technologist training. Breast cancer incidence continues to increase in East Africa, while the ability to accurately diagnose and differentiate benign and malignant breast disease remains a challenge. However, as ultrasound technology improves and becomes more affordable, there is increased access to devices including hand-held point of care ultrasound. Additionally, there has been a recent expansion in the training of academic radiologists in Tanzania, creating an opportunity for possible sustainable improvement of breast imaging and intervention. Our initial efforts at the Muhimbili Academic Medical Center (MAMC) included social media advertising for symptomatic and asymptomatic women, followed by screening (clinical breast exam) and subsequent ultrasound imaging of symptomatic women. We then initiated a workflow for ultrasound-guided breast intervention, performed biopsies, reviewed results by local pathologists, and brought the postbiopsy patients back for radiologic-pathologic correlation, wound assessment, and coordination of follow-up and treatment.

Competencies and training of radiographers and technologists for PET/MR imaging - a study from the UK MR-PET network

BackgroundAfter the success of PET/CT as a clinical diagnostic tool, the introduction of PET/MRI is a natural development aimed at further improving combined diagnostic imaging and reduced ionising radiation dose for half-body imaging. As with PET and CT, the combination of PET and MRI presents a series of issues that need to be addressed regarding workforce training and education. At present, there is a lack of agreement over the competencies, training requirements and educational pathways needed for PET/MRI operation. In the UK, following the establishment of the MR-PET imaging network, a task force was created to investigate the status of the workforce training, identify gaps and make recommendations regarding staff training. To do this, we ran a national survey on the status of the workforce training and the local practices across the UK’s seven PET/MRI sites, reviewed the literature, and convened a panel of experts, to assess all the evidence and make recommendations regarding PET/MRI competencies and training of nuclear medicine technologists and radiographers.ResultsThere is limited literature available specifically on competencies and training for technologists and radiographers. The recommendations on the topic needed revisiting and adapting to the UK MR-PET network. The online survey confirmed the need for developing PET/MRI competencies and training pathways. Local organisational structures and practices were shared across the seven sites, based on models derived from experience outside the UK. The panel of experts agreed on the need for PET/MRI competencies and training strategies. Professional organisations started collaborative discussions with partners from both Nuclear Medicine and Radiography to set training priorities. Multidisciplinary collaboration and partnership were suggested as a key to a successful implementation of competencies and training.ConclusionsThe report identified the need for establishing competencies for the PET/MRI workforce, particularly for technologists and radiographers. It also helped defining these competencies as well as identifying the demand for bespoke training and the development of local and national courses to be implemented to fulfil this new training need.

How can we strengthen pathology services in Cambodia?

Rapid economic growth and a changing disease burden have increased the demand for pathology services in Cambodia. This paper describes the status of pathological services and international support for pathology professionals in Cambodia, and discusses future needs for strengthening pathology services. In 2016, there were only four pathologists and 18 pathology technologists in Cambodia. A postgraduate course in pathology was created in 2015, and five residents became certified in 2018. Besides multinational support with lectures and practice for pathologists, the Japanese team provides on-the-job training for pathology technologists to improve slide preparation for diagnosis. A clinicopathological conference was introduced to strengthen the communication among pathologists, pathology technologists, and gynecologists. Although there is a long way to go to reach high quality pathological services, coordination among international partners needs to continue, as does the balance between human resource development for pathology professionals, to provide a higher level of care to local citizens.

ВИЗНАЧЕННЯ ТА ПОРІВНЯННЯ ВЛАСТИВОСТЕЙ ВЖИВАНОЇ ДЕРЕВИНИ ОСНОВНИХ ХВОЙНИХ ПОРІД

The physical-mechanical properties of post-consumer wood (PCW) coniferous wood, namely pine fir, larch, spruce, were investigated. Tabular data of post-consumer wood of individual coniferous species are compiled: larch, pine, spruce and fir. The following physico-mechanical indices of used coniferous wood are investigated: density, impact hardness of fibers, static hardness, static flexural strength, chipping strength along fibers, compressive strength. Nomograms based on the research results have been constructed, which made it possible to efficiently carry out a comparative analysis of indicators for all breeds – physical-mechanical parameters of primary wood and post-consumer wood of some coniferous species. It is established that the characteristics of freshly chopped and used timber of separate coniferous species, namely pine, fir, larch, spruce, differ within acceptable limits and not more than 10-15%. Post-consumer wood coniferous timber meets the standards in terms of their physico-mechanical characteristics. On the basis of the obtained experimental researches the possibility of using used wood of separate coniferous breeds of post-consumer wood coniferous, namely pine, fir, larch, spruce for the production of wood products with satisfactory physical and mechanical properties was established. The economic feasibility of using some coniferous wood is analyzed. It is substantiated that the processing of used wood is of great environmental and social importance – the benefits of material processing of this resource. In addition, the used wood stores carbon dioxide, because after burning it will be released into the air, which is important in terms of environmental ecology. It is established that post-consumer wood of individual coniferous species is a suitable resource for material use in woodworking. It has been found that the research and recommendations will be useful for the production of products and the training process in the training of technologists.

Extent of Intraprotocol and Intersite Variability of Thoracic Magnetic Resonance Acquisition Times at a Large Quaternary Institution: MR Technologist Insights as to Its Causes.

The purpose of this study was to describe Thoracic magnetic resonance (MR) acquisition time (AT) variability, associations, and technologist insights as to its causes at a large quaternary institution, by MR protocol and imaging site. A retrospective review of our 2017 QI database of 1.5 T MR imaging ATs for adults 19 years and above at the main hospital and outpatient (OPT) satellites was performed for all 5 Thoracic MR protocols. Summary statistics were calculated for ATs. Multivariable linear regression was adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, time of examination relative to shift change, technologist experience, and language interpreter. An anonymous REDCap survey of our MR technologists sought their assessment of reasons for AT variability and techniques that help reduce it. A total of 174 adult OPT 1.5 T mediastinal, pleural, and lung MR examinations were analyzed, revealing high variability of median AT by protocol and site (P<0.001)-for example, mean, median, slowest, and fastest ATs for Thymus I- protocol (n=38) were 34, 32, 66, and 8 minutes, respectively. OPT site with fewest MR technologists and a single MR scanner had shortest mean AT across all protocols (35±15 min). Full Chest I- protocol had shortest AT across all sites (mean AT=33±13 min), compared with focused imaging protocols. All I-/I+ protocols had greater than expected AT, compared with the same protocol performed (I-). Surveyed MR technologists noted limited Thoracic MR training/experience, discomfort with thoracic anatomy and Thoracic MR performance, and AT-related benefit of effective communication with the radiologist with regard to lesion location. There was tremendous intraprotocol and intersite variability of Thoracic MR ATs. Increased technologist training, amplified experience, and a solid understanding of lesion location for focused examinations may all help reduce Thoracic MR AT.

Temas transversales en el curriculum universitario. Abriendo posibilidades. Miradas en conversación

Se presentan aportes de colegas del campo del currículum en relación a la inclusión de saberes sociales en la formación de profesionales tecnólogos. Se trata de miradas en conversación sobre temas transversales posibles de ser pensados en clave controversial, y sobre acontecimientos, sujetos y formatos que abren posibilidades para su entrada en el curriculum. Lo compartido se enmarca en un proceso de investigación sobre el curriculum universitario en el que participan profesionales de la pedagogía junto con profesionales que producen, enseñan y reflexionan sobre la tecnología como práctica social. El tratamiento transversal de saberes y temas en el curriculum implica reconocer a su vez interacciones transversales entre los sujetos implicados. Para ello resulta central escuchar y establecer vínculos con redes de docentes y profesionales preocupados en estos temas en distintas latitudes.

Deploying Clinical Process Improvement Strategies to Reduce Motion Artifacts and Expiratory Phase Scanning in Chest CT

We hypothesized that clinical process improvement strategies can reduce frequency of motion artifacts and expiratory phase scanning in chest CT. We reviewed 826 chest CT to establish the baseline frequency. Per clinical process improvement guidelines, we brainstormed corrective measures and priority-pay-off matrix. The first intervention involved education of CT technologists, following which 795 chest CT were reviewed. For the second intervention, instructional videos on optimal breath-hold were shown to 245 adult patients just before their chest CT. Presence of motion artifacts and expiratory phase scanning was assessed. We also reviewed 311 chest CT scans belonging to a control group of patients who did not see the instructional videos. Pareto and percentage run charts were created for baseline and post-intervention data. Baseline incidence of motion artifacts and expiratory phase scanning in chest CT was 35% (292/826). There was no change in the corresponding incidence following the first intervention (36%; 283/795). Respiratory motion and expiratory phase chest CT with the second intervention decreased (8%, 20/245 patients). Instructional videos for patients (and not education and training of CT technologists) reduce the frequency of motion artifacts and expiratory phase scanning in chest CT.

Perceptions of physicians in Saudi Arabia on the use of international clinical guidelines for managing primary insomnia.

IntroductionWhile there are no national clinical guidelines for managing primary insomnia in Saudi Arabia, there are also no published studies of physicians’ perceptions of and attitudes towards using international guidelines. The objective of this study was to explore the knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes of physicians practising in Saudi Arabia about using international guidelines for managing insomnia.MethodsA qualitative study using in-depth, face-to-face, and semi-structured interviews with 15 physicians held in July 2017 at a tertiary care hospital in Jazan, the distal south-western province in Saudi Arabia. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, coded using the qualitative software NVivo11 and analysed thematically. Data saturation was assumed as no new understandings of the broad thematic issues were produced by the last three interviews.ResultsThemes identified were: Knowledge, Resistance, Barriers and Facilitators. Participants acknowledged their lack of awareness of available guidelines and their lack of training and education about Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). They highlighted a lack of education for patients about insomnia and its treatment. Beliefs about dependence on hypnotics and the inappropriateness of international guidelines for Saudi Arabia inclined many to resist using them. Inability to document diagnosis and consultations due to limited time and lack of suitable electronic systems, lack of suitably trained practitioners for referral for CBT-I, and lack of accountability for practice were identified as key barriers to following international guidelines. Development of national guidelines was the most important facilitator suggested by participants.ConclusionsThe health authorities in the government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) should improve general public awareness about sleep disorders and provide focused training for specialists and technologists. Above all, KSA needs its own nationwide guidelines for treating sleep-disorders based on evidence-based clinical trials, consistent with its history, culture, socioeconomic conditions and traditions.

Педагогічне моделювання практичної підготовки майбутніх техніків-технологів зі спеціальності «Виробництво хліба, кондитерських, макаронних виробів і харчових концентратів»

The practical ability of future technologists, specializing in the production of bread, confectionery, pasta and food concentrates, to professional activity is the leading criterion for the quality of their professional preparedness at food industry colleges, as well as one of the main results of their comprehensive readiness for future activities as subjects objects of professional activity. The basis of their practical abilities are practical skills and abilities of various kinds - subject-subject and subject-object. They are formed in the process of receiving vocational education in the food industry colleges, determine their preparedness for professional activity, as well as attitude and motivation to it. It is proved that pedagogical modeling is a pedagogical method of creating pedagogical models by reflecting the main characteristics of a particular pedagogical system as a pedagogical phenomenon in a specially created object - in a pedagogical model in the form of a mental representation of the implementation of a certain pedagogical event, adequately reflects the subject of pedagogical reality, including. practical training of future technologists. It is shown that pedagogical modeling of their practical training in colleges makes it possible to logically substantiate its target, methodological, substantive, subject-subject and methodical sequence by establishing links and interrelations between the main components of their professional training - theoretical and practical, providing this process with professional orientation. It was emphasized that the qualitative organization of their practical training is promoted by a structuralfunctional model, which is justified taking into account the basic principles of pedagogical modeling and consists of a target-methodological, informative, subject-subject, activity and effective components.

An electronic technetium-99m-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid glomerular filtration rate spreadsheet with novel embedded quality assurance features.

Critical clinical decisions are made on the basis of the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) measured using technetium-99m-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) administration, followed by multiple time-point plasma sampling. As GFR studies rely on few data points and produce a single result, they are prone to technical errors that may remain inconspicuous. We describe a data analysis worksheet that provides real-time quality control (QC) indicators and evaluate our initial clinical experience. Two hundred and forty-six consecutive GFR studies carried out at our clinics were included. Our protocol used plasma samples at 2, 3, and 4 h after injection of technetium-99m-DTPA. Duplicate plasma samples, background samples, and aliquots of an activity dilution standard were counted. Times were logged for injection and dilution standard preparation, blood sampling, and counting. Data were entered into a custom GFR analysis spreadsheet that flagged QC in real time at warning and error levels, including QC of the expected ratio between dilution standard counts-activity ratio (CARs) measurements, which was newly introduced to our clinic. The prevalence of QC events was analyzed in three phases: baseline, training, and evaluation (n=31, 69, and 146, respectively). From the baseline and training phases (n=100), CAR reference values were determined for each of two sites. In the absence of the CAR QC indicator, errors were present in 5/31 (16%) examinations, but with QC indication decreased to 7/146 (5%) (P<0.05), suggesting that the real-time QC information guided the technologists to ensure proper standard preparation and sample handling, as intended. Improvements in other QC measures were also noted, resulting in an overall error rate reduction from 23 to 8%. Real-time analysis of redundant information as a component of the GFR worksheet ensures quality results, but training of technologists and interpreting physicians is essential for optimal utilization of these QC indicators.

Establishing and Running a Three-dimensional and Advanced Imaging Laboratory.

Multidetector CT technology has advanced during the past 2 decades from single-digit numbers of sections to 320-section CT scanners. The ability to perform three-dimensional (3D) postprocessing of acquired data has accompanied this technical progress. Multiple considerations are involved in developing and deploying a 3D and advanced imaging laboratory to provide postprocessing for both CT and MRI examinations. Establishing and running a 3D laboratory requires administrators to buy into the process and also requires regular input from radiologists and other stakeholders. Technologists with prior 3D experience are rare, and extensive immersive training is typically required. Laboratory space and equipment must be maintained and updated regularly to continue to meet stakeholders' needs. Postprocessing protocols must be established and reviewed periodically. Quality control is also necessary to ensure that postprocessing outputs adhere to the protocols. Laboratory technologists can also provide postprocessing support for research examinations and can lend their technical expertise to research projects. Regular review of laboratory productivity is essential to ensure longevity and availability of necessary resources (human, environmental, and technical). As the technologies for the imaging equipment, the picture archiving and communication system, and postprocessing continue to advance, the role of the 3D laboratory will also evolve to include other services. This evolution will affect ongoing training of technologists, as well as the requirements when new technologists are hired. The 3D laboratory is often positioned to take on novel technology and augment radiologists' workflow as new modalities and techniques enter the clinical workflow. ©RSNA, 2018.

DXA Errors Are Common and Reduced by Use of a Reporting Template

Objective: High quality dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) acquisition, analysis, and reporting demands technical and interpretive excellence. We hypothesized that DXA errors are common and of such magnitude that incorrect clinical decisions might result. In this 2-phase study, we evaluated DXA technical and interpretation error rates in a clinical population and subsequently assessed if implementing an interpretation template reduced errors. Methods: In phase 1, DXA scans of 345 osteoporosis clinic referrals were reviewed by International Society for Clinical Densitometry-certified technologists (n = 3) and physicians (n = 3). Technologists applied International Society for Clinical Densitometry performance standards to assess technical quality. Physicians assessed reporting compliance with published guidance, relevance of technical errors and determined overall and major error prevalence. Major errors were defined as "provision of inaccurate information that could potentially lead to incorrect patient care decisions." In phase 2, a DXA reporting template was implemented at 2 clinical DXA sites after which the 3 physicians reviewed 200 images and reports as above. The error prevalence was compared with the 298 patients in phase 1 from these sites. Results: In phase 1, technical errors were identified in 90% of patients and affected interpretation in 13%. Interpretation errors were present in 80% of patients; 42% were major. The most common major errors were reporting incorrect information on bone mineral density change (70%) and incorrect diagnosis (22%). In phase 2, at these 2 clinical sites, major errors were present in 37% before and 17% after template implementation. Template usage reduced the odds of major error by 66% (odds ratio 0.34, 95% confidence interval 0.21, 0.53, and p < 0.0001). Conclusion: DXA technical and interpretation errors are extremely common and likely adversely affect patient care. Implementing a DXA reporting template reduces major errors and should become common practice. Additional interventions, such as requiring initial and ongoing training and/or certification for technologists and interpreters, are suggested.

S96. EEG reactivity testing practices for cardiac arrest coma prognostication in North America

Introduction Lack of EEG reactivity is associated with unfavorable functional outcome in hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. Recent literature suggests that EEG reactivity inter-rater agreement between experts is as low as 26–50%. It is unclear if technical procedures, nomenclature variability, and practice patterns might contribute to poor inter-rater agreement rates. Methods We conducted a survey of representatives from North American institutions participating in the Critical Care EEG Monitoring Research Consortium to assess practice patterns involving EEG reactivity testing. The 10-question multiple choice survey evaluated center-specific metrics related to technical, personnel, and procedural aspects of EEG reactivity testing and assessment specific to cardiac arrest prognostication. One response per institution was obtained. Results We received responses from 25 institutions, including seven pediatric hospitals. A standardized EEG reactivity testing protocol was available in 44% of centers and 44% of respondents felt that reactivity assessment was subjective. Electroencephalogram reactivity testing usually started during hypothermia (76%) and tipically happened at least once daily (63%). Auditory stimulation and nail bed pressure were the most frequently used stimulation modalities (83% and 63% respectively). One institution included nipple pinching as part of its testing protocol. Stimulation was performed primarily by EEG Technologists (76%). Video-EEG assessment was the most common review method (92%). Changes in EEG amplitude were not considered consistent with EEG reactivity by 24% of centers. Stimulus induced rhythmic, periodic, or ictal discharges were considered indicative of EEG reactivity in 44% of centers. Conclusion There is substantial variability in EEG reactivity testing practices among North American academic medical centers. Lack of standardization of stimulation protocols, training of EEG Technologists, and ambiguous definitions of EEG reactivity might contribute to subjectivity and variability in EEG reactivity assessment.

La formación en NIIF en los programas de contabilidad y finanzas del CSF. Una aproximación desde el conocimiento de los aprendices

This paper states the results of the research “Requirements requested by the SMEs of Bogota, in relation to the knowledge of SENA trainees”, funded by SENNOVA in 2016, which aimed to measure the level of basic knowle­dge in international accounting standards that the trainees of the Financial Services Training Centre have, to propose strategies for strengthening the training processes and employability against the needs of the pro­ductive sector. The paper features a contextualization on the regulatory development of IFRS and the training on them at the Financial Services Training Centre, the pedagogical model, job skills for which SENA is governed, as a framework to analyze the results of the assessment to trainees of the Accounting and Finance Technologist training pro­gramme on their degree of knowledge and management of IFRS, in which an intermediate level was found and about which recommendations are provided for their strengthening.

BEST PRACTICES IN MOLECULAR BREAST IMAGING: A GUIDE FOR TECHNOLOGISTS.

Molecular breast imaging (MBI) technologists are required to possess a combination of nuclear medicine skills and mammographic positioning techniques. Currently, no formal programs offer this type of hybrid technologist training. The purpose of this perspective is to provide a best practices guide for technologists performing MBI. Familiarity with best practices may aid in obtaining high-quality MBI examinations by decreasing the likelihood of image artifacts, positioning problems and other factors that contribute to false negative or false positive findings.

Consensus Statement by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and American College of Endocrinology on the Quality of DXA Scans and Reports

High-quality dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans are necessary for accurate diagnosis of osteoporosis and monitoring of therapy; however, DXA scan reports may contain errors that cause confusion about diagnosis and treatment. This American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists/American College of Endocrinology consensus statement was generated to draw attention to many common technical problems affecting DXA report conclusions and provide guidance on how to address them to ensure that patients receive appropriate osteoporosis care. The DXA Writing Committee developed a consensus based on discussion and evaluation of available literature related to osteoporosis and osteodensitometry. Technical errors may include errors in scan acquisition and/or analysis, leading to incorrect diagnosis and reporting of change over time. Although the International Society for Clinical Densitometry advocates training for technologists and medical interpreters to help eliminate these problems, many lack skill in this technology. Suspicion that reports are wrong arises when clinical history is not compatible with scan interpretation (e.g., dramatic increase/decrease in a short period of time; declines in previously stable bone density after years of treatment), when different scanners are used, or when inconsistent anatomic sites are used for monitoring the response to therapy. Understanding the concept of least significant change will minimize erroneous conclusions about changes in bone density. Clinicians must develop the skills to differentiate technical problems, which confound reports, from real biological changes. We recommend that clinicians review actual scan images and data, instead of relying solely on the impression of the report, to pinpoint errors and accurately interpret DXA scan images. AACE = American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists; BMC = bone mineral content; BMD = bone mineral density; DXA = dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry; ISCD = International Society for Clinical Densitometry; LSC = least significant change; TBS = trabecular bone score; WHO = World Health Organization.

Skin marker placement by technologist prior to knee MRI helps identify clinically relevant pathologies

BackgroundMajority of musculoskeletal cross-sectional imaging requests have a non-revealing and non-specific clinical history of pain. However, the location of pain is very relevant towards arriving at a specific orthopedic diagnosis. The purpose of this research was to study the impact of skin marker placement and training of technologists prior to knee MRI in detection of clinically important findings.MethodsTotal 200 consecutive left knee MRIs were evaluated before and after technologist training with regards to marker placement at the site of clinical symptoms or palpable finding. Marker location in relation to the knee was recorded and important findings were classified as correlated important finding, non-correlated important finding, other compartment important finding in non-correlated cases, and diffuse abnormality, i.e. tri-compartmental cartilage defects in both correlated and non-correlated cases. Differences among scans before and after technologist training were analyzed.ResultsThe marker placement was observed in higher proportion of patients in post-training scans (78% vs 60%, p = 0.00). The most common location of the marker was in anterior or anterolateral knee (32% and 34% cases, respectively). The marker-important finding correlation was also higher post training, but not statistically significant (53% versus 38%, p = 0.57). Important findings correlated with the marker in more than 50% of the scans in the post-training set.ConclusionMarker placement can aid in detection of clinically important imaging finding and technologist training aids in increased rates of marker placement and improved correlation.