Finding the Truth in Medical Imaging: Painting the Picture of Appropriateness for Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Canada.
BACKGROUND
Questions about the appropriateness of medical imaging exams, particularly related to magnetic resonance exams, have arisen in recent years. However, the prevalence of inappropriate imaging in Canada is unclear as inappropriate exam proportion estimates are often based on studies from other countries. Hence, we sought to compare and summarize Canadian studies related to magnetic resonance imaging appropriateness.


METHODS
We completed a systematic literature search identifying studies related to magnetic resonance appropriateness in Canada published between 2003 and 2013. Two researchers independently searched and evaluated the literature available. Articles that studied or discussed magnetic resonance appropriateness in Canada were selected based on titles, abstracts, and, where necessary, full article review. Articles relating solely to other modalities or countries were excluded, as were imaging appropriateness guidelines and reviews.


RESULTS
Fourteen articles were included: 8 quantitative studies and 6 editorials/commentaries. The quantitative studies reported inappropriate proportions of magnetic resonance exams ranging from 2%-28.5%. Our review also revealed substantial variations among study methods and analyses. Common topics identified among editorials/commentaries included reasons for obtaining imaging in general and for selecting a specific modality, consequences of inappropriate imaging, factors contributing to demand, and suggested means of mitigating inappropriate medical imaging use.


CONCLUSIONS
The available studies do not support the common claim that 30% of medical imaging exams in Canada are inappropriate. The actual proportion of inappropriate magnetic resonance exams has not yet been established conclusively in Canada. Further research, particularly on a widespread national scale, is needed to guide healthcare policies.
Department of Medical Imaging, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada; Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. Electronic address: sonia.vanderby@usask.ca.
Sonia
S
Vanderby
Department of Medical Imaging, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
Juan Nicolás
JN
Peña-Sánchez
Department of Medical Imaging, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
Neil
N
Kalra
Department of Medical Imaging, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
Paul
P
Babyn
D002170:Canada; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D019564:Unnecessary Procedures / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*
Appropriateness; Canada; Literature review; Magnetic resonance imaging; Quality assurance