Use of reports of previous radiologic studies.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to determine the length of time over which previous radiologic reports were useful during current interpretations and the types of information gathered from the old reports.


METHODS
The authors directly observed the use of 209 old reports by radiologists during current radiologic interpretation. They recorded the date of the old report, modality used, and type of information sought. The interpreting radiologists then rated the value of the information in the old report on a Likert scale of 1 (high value) to 4 (minimal value).


RESULTS
In 85% of cases, the most valuable information obtained was found in reports that were less than 2 years old. The most frequently sought types of information were clinical history or the previous radiologist's interpretation.


CONCLUSIONS
Old reports add value to current interpretation by providing a form of "second reading" and providing clinical history. Two years is sufficient old report access in 85% of situations.
Berbaum
K S
KS
Department of Radiology, University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City 52242, USA.
Smith
W L
WL
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D003952:Diagnostic Imaging; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008499:Medical Records; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011859:Radiography; D011871:Radiology; D015642:Radiology, Interventional; D011877:Radionuclide Imaging; D013997:Time Factors; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014463:Ultrasonography