Structured reporting of prostate magnetic resonance imaging has the potential to improve interdisciplinary communication

[Increased report completeness and satisfaction with structured neurotological reporting in the interdisciplinary assessment of vertigo]

BACKGROUND

Results of neurotological function diagnostics in the context of interdisciplinary vertigo assessment are usually formulated as free-text reports (FTR). These are often subject to high variability, which may lead to loss of information. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the completeness of structured reports (SR) and referrer satisfaction in the neurotological assessment of vertigo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Neurotological function diagnostics performed as referrals (n = 88) were evaluated retrospectively. On the basis of the available raw data, SRs corresponding to FTRs from clinical routine were created by means of a specific SR template for neurotological function diagnostics. FTRs and SRs were evaluated for completeness and referring physician satisfaction (n = 8) using a visual analog scale (VAS) questionnaire.

RESULTS

Compared to FTRs, SRs showed significantly increased overall completeness (73.7% vs. 51.7%, p < 0.001), especially in terms of patient history (92.5% vs. 66.7%, p < 0.001), description of previous findings (87.5% vs. 38%, p < 0.001), and neurotological (33.5% vs. 26.7%, p < 0.001) and audiometric function diagnostics (58% vs. 32.3%, p < 0.001). In addition, SR showed significantly increased referring physician satisfaction (VAS 8.8 vs. 4.9, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Neurotological SRs enable a significantly increased report completeness with higher referrer satisfaction in the context of interdisciplinary assessment of vertigo. Furthermore, SRs are particularly suitable for scientific data analysis, especially in the context of big data analyses.

Perceptions of radiologists on structured reporting for cancer imaging-a survey by the European Society of Oncologic Imaging (ESOI)

OBJECTIVES

To assess radiologists' current use of, and opinions on, structured reporting (SR) in oncologic imaging, and to provide recommendations for a structured report template.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An online survey with 28 questions was sent to European Society of Oncologic Imaging (ESOI) members. The questionnaire had four main parts: (1) participant information, e.g., country, workplace, experience, and current SR use; (2) SR design, e.g., numbers of sections and fields, and template use; (3) clinical impact of SR, e.g., on report quality and length, workload, and communication with clinicians; and (4) preferences for an oncology-focused structured CT report. Data analysis comprised descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and Spearman correlation coefficients.

RESULTS

A total of 200 radiologists from 51 countries completed the survey: 57.0% currently utilized SR (57%), with a lower proportion within than outside of Europe (51.0 vs. 72.7%; p = 0.006). Among SR users, the majority observed markedly increased report quality (62.3%) and easier comparison to previous exams (53.5%), a slightly lower error rate (50.9%), and fewer calls/emails by clinicians (78.9%) due to SR. The perceived impact of SR on communication with clinicians (i.e., frequency of calls/emails) differed with radiologists' experience (p < 0.001), and experience also showed low but significant correlations with communication with clinicians (r = - 0.27, p = 0.003), report quality (r = 0.19, p = 0.043), and error rate (r = - 0.22, p = 0.016). Template use also affected the perceived impact of SR on report quality (p = 0.036).

CONCLUSION

Radiologists regard SR in oncologic imaging favorably, with perceived positive effects on report quality, error rate, comparison of serial exams, and communication with clinicians.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

Radiologists believe that structured reporting in oncologic imaging improves report quality, decreases the error rate, and enables better communication with clinicians. Implementation of structured reporting in Europe is currently below the international level and needs society endorsement.

KEY POINTS

• The majority of oncologic imaging specialists (57% overall; 51% in Europe) use structured reporting in clinical practice. • The vast majority of oncologic imaging specialists use templates (92.1%), which are typically cancer-specific (76.2%). • Structured reporting is perceived to markedly improve report quality, communication with clinicians, and comparison to prior scans.

Structured reporting in fetal magnetic resonance imaging with congenital diaphragmatic hernia

OBJECTIVE

We aim to provide a template structured report of fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) that was locally validated by the CDH study group in Mannheim.

METHODS

A selection of 50 fetal MRIs of patients with an isolated diaphragmatic hernia and associated radiology reports from five different senior radiologists from a single center resulted in a primary structured report, which was put into practice by using dedicated software. A questionnaire survey of the interdisciplinary CDH study group Mannheim was used to adapt the report to the clinical requirements.

RESULTS

There was a huge variability in how deep the free text reports go into detail. The side of the hernia was named in 94% of cases. In 58%, both the lung volume and the total lung volume were reported. A comparison with the expected lung volume was reported in 66% of cases. Additional findings, such as herniated organs, were reported in 96% of cases. Overall satisfaction with the newly established structured report was high within the CDH study group with a mean of 4.7.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of the structured report of this study can optimize the interdisciplinary dialog, the standardization of report content, increase report completeness and improve quality.

Prostate MRI and image quality: The urologist's perspective

The development of different imaging modalities of the prostate has significantly improved tumor detection, patient risk stratification, and quality of care.Among these, multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mp-MRI) has emerged as the most sensitive tool.It is useful in the diagnosis, localization, risk stratification, and staging of clinically significant prostate cancer, PCa. As a result, mp-MRI of the prostate is recommended as the initial diagnostic test for men with suspected PCa. A multidisciplinary approach is crucial in the diagnosis and management of prostate cancer and mp-MRI plays a fundamental role in this scenario.While many aspects of image quality certainly fall within the purview of radiology, it is important to recognize that urologists must also be attentive to imaging quality when utilizing mp-MRI to facilitate PCa management. We present our viewpoint as urologists on how image quality impacts the management of men diagnosed with PCa andattempt to identify the factors that impact mp-MRI image quality, consequences of poor image quality, and finally suggestions for improvements.

Structured magnetic resonance imaging-based characterization of the marginal vein reveals limits of the Weber-classification

Background: The marginal vein (MV) is a persisting embryonic vein located at the lateral aspect of the lower limb. The Weber-classification, which was developed on the basis of phlebography in the 1990s, is the only existing classification system for this rare disease. Aim of this study was the structured characterization of the lateral marginal vein (MV) using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and evaluation of the applicability of the Weber-classification. Patients and methods: Institutional Review Board approval was obtained for this retrospective, single-center study. All patients who underwent contrast-enhanced MRI (using a prospectively determined protocol) of the untreated MV were included. MV anatomy and associated findings were characterized in a structured way taking into account the criteria of the Weber-classification for MV: inflow, outflow and extension. If three criteria of the Weber-classification were fulfilled the MV was categorized as "classifiable according to Weber". The MV was categorized as "partially classifiable according to Weber", if two criteria were met and as "not classifiable according to Weber" if less than two criteria were applicable. Results: 56 imaging studies of 58 MV (7 thoracoabdominal, 51 lower extremities) were reviewed. 18/51 MV of the lower extremities were "classifiable" according to the Weber-classification. 33/51 lower extremity MV were not definitely categorized according to the Weber-classification: 19/51 MV were "partially classifiable" and 14/51 MV were "not classifiable". 30/51 MV presented with hypoplastic, 1/51 with aplastic deep venous system. 34/51 lower extremity and 6/7 thoracoabdominal MV were associated with an additional vascular malformation (VM). Conclusions: MRI is suitable for detailed anatomic characterization of the MV and reveals additional therapy relevant findings like associated VM. The Weber-classification was not applicable in most cases, reflecting its limits and the heterogeneity of this rare disease. Structured reports rather than an obsolete classification system should be preferred for MRI of the MV.

Routine Use of Structured Reporting in Whole-body Trauma CT Facilitates Quality Improvement

PURPOSE

 Structured reporting (SR) is increasingly used. So far, there is minimal experience with SR in whole-body computed tomography (WBCT). The aim of this study was to investigate the value of routine use of SR in WBCT in trauma with a focus on reporting time, reporting errors, and referrer satisfaction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 Reporting time and reporting errors of CT reports were prospectively quantified for residents and board-certified radiologists 3 months before and for 6 months after implementation of a structured report in the clinical routine. Referrer satisfaction was prospectively quantified by means of a survey before and after the implementation period of SR using a 5-point Likert scale. Before and after results were compared to determine the effect of structured reporting on WBCT in trauma at our institution.

RESULTS

 The mean reporting time was lower when using SR (65 ± 52 min. vs. 87 ± 124 min., p = .25). After 4 months, the median reporting time was significantly lower with SR (p = .02). Consequently, the rate of reports that were finished within one hour rose from 55.1 % to 68.3 %. Likewise, reporting errors decreased (12.6 % vs. 8.4 %, p = .48). Residents and board-certified radiologists reported fewer errors when using SR with 16.4 % vs. 12.6 % and 8.8 % vs. 2.7 %, respectively. General referrer satisfaction improved (1.7 ± 0.8 vs. 1.5 ± 1.1, p = .58). Referrers graded improvements for standardization of reports (2.2 ± 1.1 vs. 1.3 ± 1.1, p = .03), consistency of report structure (2.1 ± 1.1 vs. 1.4 ± 1.1, p = .09), and retrievability of relevant pathologies (2.1 ± 1.2 vs. 1.6 ± 1.1, p = .32).

CONCLUSION

 SR has the potential to facilitate process improvement for WBCT in trauma in the daily routine with a reduction of reporting time and reporting mistakes while increasing referrer satisfaction.

KEY POINTS

· SR for WBCT in trauma is feasable in clinical routine.. · Reporting time in WBCT in trauma decreases by SR.. · SR for WBCT in trauma has the potential to decrease reporting mistakes.. · SR for WBCT in trauma might increase referrer satisfaction..

CITATION FORMAT

· Blum SF, Hertzschuch D, Langer E et al. Routine Use of Structured Reporting in Whole-body Trauma CT Facilitates Quality Improvement. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2023; DOI: 10.1055/a-2031-2364.

Preoperative Multiparametric Prostate Magnetic Resonance Imaging Structured Report Informs Risk for Positive Apical Surgical Margins During Radical Prostatectomy

BACKGROUND

The prostatic apex is the most frequent location of positive surgical margin (PSM) after surgery. Data regarding the ability of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) to prospectively identify men at risk for apical PSMs (aPSMs) using a structured report are lacking.

OBJECTIVES

The aims of the study are to determine and to compare the rate of aPSM in men with versus without prospectively flagged at-risk prostate lesions during clinical mpMRI interpretation using whole-mount histopathology as the reference standard.

METHODS

This single-center, retrospective study of prospectively collected data included treatment-naive men with abnormal 3T mpMRI (PI-RADS v2 score ≥3) between January 2016 and December 2018 followed by surgery. During routine clinical interpretation, radiologists flagged prostate lesions abutting the apical most gland and/or encircling the distal most prostatic urethra using standardized language available as a "pick list" option in the structured report. Logistic regression was used to compare the rate of PSM in 2 groups (flagged vs nonflagged men). Propensity score covariate adjustment corrected for potential selection bias according to age, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), PSA density, grade group, and pT stage. The estimate was further adjusted by including surgeon as a covariate.

RESULTS

A total of 428 men were included. A statistically significant higher proportion of aPSMs was noted in flagged (56% [51/91]) compared with nonflagged apical lesions (31% [105/337]; adjusted odds ratio, 2.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.6-4.1; P < 0.01). The difference in aPSM between both groups also varied according to the surgeon performing the RP. Prostate-specific antigen, PSA density, lesion size, apical location, Prostate Imaging Reporting & Data System score, grade group, pT stage, and surgeon's experience were associated with higher PSM rate. Biochemical recurrence, defined as PSA greater than 0.2 ng/mL on 2 measurements after RP, was significantly associated with PSM status (propensity score adjusted odds ratio, 3.1; 95% confidence interval, 1.8-5.3; P < 0.0001); however, patients flagged by radiologists did not have a significant difference in biochemical recurrence rates as compared with nonflagged patients ( P = 0.11).

CONCLUSIONS

Standard language built into structured reports for mpMRI of the prostate helps identify preoperatively patients at risk for aPSM.

CLINICAL IMPACT

Multiparametric MRI is able to identify patients at increased risk for aPSM, and this information can be conveyed in a structured report to urologists, facilitating patient counseling and treatment decisions.

Collaboration Between Physicians from Different Medical Specialties in Hospital Settings: A Systematic Review

Health care today is characterized by an increasing number of patients with comorbidities for whom interphysician collaboration seems very important. We reviewed the literature to understand what factors affect interphysician collaboration, determine how interphysician collaboration is measured, and determine its effects. We systematically searched six major databases. Based on 63 articles, we identified five categories that influence interphysician collaboration: personal factors, professional factors, preconditions and tools, organizational elements, and contextual characteristics. We identified a diverse set of mostly unvalidated tools for measuring interphysician collaboration that focus on information being transferred and understood, frequency of interaction and tone of the relationship, and value judgements about quality or satisfaction. We found that interphysician collaboration increased clinical outcomes as well as patient and staff satisfaction, while error rates and length of stay were reduced. The results should, however, be interpreted with caution, as most of the studies provide a low level of evidence.

Canadian Association of Radiologists Prostate MRI White Paper

Prostate cancer is the most common malignancy and the third most common cause of death in Canadian men. In light of evolving diagnostic pathways for prostate cancer and the increased use of MRI, which now includes its use in men prior to biopsy, the Canadian Association of Radiologists established a Prostate MRI Working Group to produce a white paper to provide recommendations on establishing and maintaining a Prostate MRI Programme in the context of the Canadian healthcare system. The recommendations, which are based on available scientific evidence and/or expert consensus, are intended to maintain quality in image acquisition, interpretation, reporting and targeted biopsy to ensure optimal patient care. The paper covers technique, reporting, quality assurance and targeted biopsy considerations and includes appendices detailing suggested reporting templates, quality assessment tools and sample image acquisition protocols relevant to the Canadian healthcare context.

Patient communication in radiology: Moving up the agenda

Optimised communication between patients and the imaging team is an essential component of providing patient-centred and value-based care. Communication with patients can be challenging in the setting of busy radiology departments where there is a focus on efficient and accurate diagnosis. Traditionally, most results are provided directly to the referring clinician. However, the importance of direct communication between the radiologist and patient is increasingly relevant, particularly in the context of face-to-face settings such as rapid assessment and ultrasound clinics, and interventional radiology, as well as in written form through electronic patient portals. Artificial intelligence tools may improve efficiency, allowing more time for radiologists to communicate directly with patients. There is a need for dedicated training in communication skills for imaging professionals. This review considers the topic of patient communication in the setting of imaging departments and discusses the ways that communication skills may be improved through training and through harnessing emerging digital technologies that may enhance the quality of communication.

Quantifying the Effects of Structured Reporting on Report Turnaround Times and Proofreading Workload in Neuroradiology

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of a change from free text reporting to structured reporting on resident reports, the proofreading workload and report turnaround times in the neuroradiology daily routine.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Our neuroradiology section introduced structured reporting templates in July 2019. Reports dictated by residents during dayshifts from January 2019 to March 2020 were retrospectively assessed using quantitative parameters from report comparison. Through automatic analysis of text-string differences between report states (i.e. draft, preliminary and final report), Jaccard similarities and edit distances of reports following read-out sessions as well as after report sign-off were calculated. Furthermore, turnaround times until preliminary and final report availability to clinicians were investigated. Parameters were visualized as trending line graphs and statistically compared between reporting standards.

RESULTS

Three thousand five hundred thirty-eight reports were included into analysis. Mean Jaccard similarity of resident drafts and staff-reviewed final reports increased from 0.53 ± 0.37 to 0.79 ± 0.22 after the introduction of structured reporting (p < .001). Both mean overall edits on draft reports by residents following read-out sessions (0.30 ± 0.45 vs. 0.09 ± 0.29; p < .001) and by staff radiologists during report sign-off (0.17 ± 0.28 vs. 0.12 ± 0.23, p < .001) decreased. With structured reporting, mean turnaround time until preliminary report availability to clinicians decreased by 20.7 minutes (246.9 ± 207.0 vs. 226.2 ± 224.9; p < .001). Similarly, final reports were available 35.0 minutes faster on average (558.05 ± 15.1 vs. 523.0 ± 497.3; p = .002).

CONCLUSION

Structured reporting is beneficial in the neuroradiology daily routine, as resident drafts require fewer edits in the report review process. This reduction in proofreading workload is likely responsible for lower report turnaround times.

Structured reporting in radiology: a systematic review to explore its potential

OBJECTIVES

Structured reporting (SR) in radiology reporting is suggested to be a promising tool in clinical practice. In order to implement such an emerging innovation, it is necessary to verify that radiology reporting can benefit from SR. Therefore, the purpose of this systematic review is to explore the level of evidence of structured reporting in radiology. Additionally, this review provides an overview on the current status of SR in radiology.

METHODS

A narrative systematic review was conducted, searching PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library using the syntax 'radiol*' AND 'structur*' AND 'report*'. Structured reporting was divided in SR level 1, structured layout (use of templates and checklists), and SR level 2, structured content (a drop-down menu, point-and-click or clickable decision trees). Two reviewers screened the search results and included all quantitative experimental studies that discussed SR in radiology. A thematic analysis was performed to appraise the evidence level.

RESULTS

The search resulted in 63 relevant full text articles out of a total of 8561 articles. Thematic analysis resulted in 44 SR level 1 and 19 level 2 reports. Only one paper was scored as highest level of evidence, which concerned a double cohort study with randomized trial design.

CONCLUSION

The level of evidence for implementing SR in radiology is still low and outcomes should be interpreted with caution.

KEY POINTS

• Structured reporting is increasingly being used in radiology, especially in abdominal and neuroradiological CT and MRI reports. • SR can be subdivided into structured layout (SR level 1) and structured content (SR level 2), in which the first is defined as being a template in which the reporter has to report; the latter is an IT-based manner in which the content of the radiology report can be inserted and displayed into the report. • Despite the extensive amount of research on the subject of structured reporting, the level of evidence is low.

Structured CT reporting of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: impact on completeness of information and interdisciplinary communication for surgical planning

PURPOSE

With the rise in popularity of structured reports in radiology, we sought to evaluate whether free-text CT reports on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) staging at our institute met published guidelines and assess feedback of pancreatic surgeons comparing free-text and structured report styles with the same information content.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 298 free-text preoperative CT reports from 2015 to 2017 for the inclusion of key tumor descriptors. Two surgeons independently evaluated 50 free-text reports followed by evaluation of the same reports in a structured format using a 7-question survey to assess the usefulness and ease of information extraction. Fisher's exact test and Chi-square test for independence were utilized for categorical responses and an independent samples t test for comparing mean ratings of report quality as rated on a 5-point Likert scale.

RESULTS

The most commonly included descriptors in free-text reports were tumor location (99%), liver lesions (97%), and suspicious lymph nodes (97%). The most commonly excluded descriptors were variant arterial anatomy and peritoneal/omental nodularity, which were present in only 23% and 42% of the reports, respectively. For vascular involvement, a mention of the presence or absence of perivascular disease with the main portal vein was most commonly included (87%). Both surgeons' rating of overall report quality was significantly higher for structured reports (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that free-text reports may not include key descriptors for staging PDAC. Surgeons rated structured reports that presented the same information as free-text reports but in a template format superior for guiding clinical management, convenience of use, and overall report quality.

Structured Reporting in Musculoskeletal Radiology

Musculoskeletal (MSK) radiologists are predominantly consultants in the service departments of health care. Unlike the manufacturing industry, quality controls are difficult to institute in a service industry and more variability is expected. Structured reporting is a unique way to institute quality standards, and by using the checklist approach with uniform terminology, it can lead to more homogeneity and consistency of reporting, concise lexicon use within and across practices, minimization of errors, enhancement of divisional and departmental branding, improvement of interdisciplinary communications, and future data mining. We share our experience from more than a decade of structured reporting in the domain of MSK radiology, our practice standards, and how reporting has evolved in our MSK practice. Further discussions include future directions aided by machine learning approaches with augmented reality and the possibility of virtual fellowship and training using consistent lexicons and structured reporting.

[Current developments in healthcare information technology : Impact on structured reporting]

Structured reporting has become established in many radiological applications over the last 20 years. However, its significance is often still seen as being limited to a narrow section of clinical workflows-image reporting and the creation of radiological reports. By placing every clinical and radiological finding in a semantic context from which its clinical meaning can be reproduced at any time, even by digital assistance systems, structured handling of medical data is essential for the interoperability of clinical systems along the entire diagnostic and therapeutic pathway.

Structured reporting of CT scans of patients with trauma leads to faster, more detailed diagnoses: An experimental study

PURPOSE

This study aimed to determine whether structured reports (SRs) reduce reporting time and/or increase the level of detail for trauma CT scans compared to free-text reports (FTRs).

METHOD

Eight radiology residents used SRs and FTRs to describe 14 whole-body CT scans of patients with polytrauma in a simulated emergency room setting. Each resident created both a brief report and a detailed report for each case using one of the two formats. We measured the time to complete the detailed reports and established a scoring system to objectively measure report completeness and the level of detail. Scoring sheets divided the CT findings into main and secondary criteria. Finally, the radiological residents completed a questionnaire on their opinions of the SRs and FTRs.

RESULTS

The detailed SRs were completed significantly faster than the detailed FTRs (mean 19 min vs. 25 min; p < 0.001). The maximum allowance of 25 min was used for 25% of SRs and 59% of FTRs. For brief reports, the SRs contained more secondary criteria than the FTRs (p = 0.001), but no significant differences were detected in main criteria. Study participants rated their own SRs as significantly more time-efficient, concise, and clearly structured compared to the FTRs. However, SRs and FTRs were rated similarly for quality, accuracy, and completeness.

CONCLUSION

We found that SRs for whole-body trauma CT add clinical value compared to FTRs because SRs reduce reporting time and increase the level of detail for trauma CT scans.

Comparison of Multi-Parametric MRI of the Prostate to 3D Prostate Computer Aided Designs and 3D-Printed Prostate Models for Pre-Operative Planning of Radical Prostatectomies: A Pilot Study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the use of 3D computed aided designs and 3D-printed models as pre-operative planning tools for urologists, in addition to radiologist interpreted mp-MRIS, prior to radical prostatectomy procedures.

METHODS

Ten patients with biopsy-positive lesions detected on mp-MRI were retrospectively selected. Radiologists identified lesion locations using a Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) map and segmented the prostate, lesion(s), and surrounding anatomy to create 3D-CADs and 3D-printed models for each patient. 6 uro-oncologists randomly reviewed three modalities (mp-MRI, 3D-CAD, and 3D-printed models) for each patient and identified lesion locations which were graded for accuracy against the radiologists' answers. Questionnaires assessed decision confidence, ease-of-interpretation, and usefulness for preoperative planning for each modality.

RESULTS

Using 3D-CADs and 3D-printed models compared to mp-MRI, urologists were 2.4x and 2.8x more accurate at identifying the lesion(s), 2.7x and 3.2x faster, 1.6x and 1.63x more confident, and reported it was 1.6x and 1.7x easier to interpret. 3D-CADs and 3D-printed models were reported significantly more useful for overall pre-operative planning, identifying lesion location(s), determining degree of nerve sparing, obtaining negative margins, and patient counseling. Sub-analysis showed 3D-printed models demonstrated significant improvements in ease-of-interpretation, speed, usefulness for obtaining negative margins, and patient counseling compared to 3D-CADs.

CONCLUSION

3D-CADs and 3D-printed models are useful adjuncts to mp-MRI in providing urologists with more practical, accurate, and efficient pre-operative planning.

A Hybrid Reporting Platform for Extended RadLex Coding Combining Structured Reporting Templates and Natural Language Processing

Structured reporting is a favorable and sustainable form of reporting in radiology. Among its advantages are better presentation, clearer nomenclature, and higher quality. By using MRRT-compliant templates, the content of the categorized items (e.g., select fields) can be automatically stored in a database, which allows further research and quality analytics based on established ontologies like RadLex® linked to the items. Additionally, it is relevant to provide free-text input for descriptions of findings and impressions in complex imaging studies or for the information included with the clinical referral. So far, however, this unstructured content cannot be categorized. We developed a solution to analyze and code these free-text parts of the templates in our MRRT-compliant reporting platform, using natural language processing (NLP) with RadLex® terms in addition to the already categorized items. The established hybrid reporting concept is working successfully. The NLP tool provides RadLex® codes with modifiers (affirmed, speculated, negated). Radiologists can confirm or reject codes provided by NLP before finalizing the structured report. Furthermore, users can suggest RadLex® codes from free text that is not correctly coded with NLP or can suggest to change the modifier. Analyzing free-text fields took 1.23 s on average. Hybrid reporting enables coding of free-text information in our MRRT-compliant templates and thus increases the amount of categorized data that can be stored in the database. This enhances the possibilities for further analyses, such as correlating clinical information with radiological findings or storing high-quality structured information for machine-learning approaches.

[Current developments on digitalization : Analysis of quality and economics in healthcare]

Hintergrund

Im deutschen Gesundheitssystem und damit auch im Fachgebiet der Urologie gewinnen ökonomische Rahmenbedingungen zunehmend an Bedeutung und parallel dazu werden digitale Anwendungen vermehrt eingesetzt.

Fragestellung

Die Fragestellung betrifft die gesundheitsökonomische Auseinandersetzung mit den Rahmenbedingungen der Digitalisierung im deutschen Gesundheitssystem sowie ausgewählter Anwendungsbereiche in der Urologie.

Material und Methoden

Das Gutachten des Sachverständigenrates zur Begutachtung der Entwicklung im Gesundheitswesen (SVR) wird analysiert und eine systematische Literaturanalyse zum Einsatz der strukturierten Befundung und Analyse ausgewählter Literatur zu telemedizinischen Anwendungen in der Urologie unter gesundheitsökonomischen Gesichtspunkten durchgeführt.

Ergebnisse

Als zentrale Hemmnisse bei der Digitalisierung des deutschen Gesundheitswesens identifiziert der SVR dessen Regulierung und Komplexität sowie den Umgang mit Datenschutz und -sicherheit. Der Einsatz strukturierter Befundung kann Qualität, Effektivität und Effizienz der Befundung in der Urologie steigern. Im Hinblick auf die Kosten können signifikante Einsparungen mit zunehmender Digitalisierung in der Medizin realisiert werden.

Schlussfolgerungen

Aus medizinischer und gesundheitsökonomischer Perspektive besteht bei der Ausgestaltung von Rahmenbedingungen für digitale Anwendungen im deutschen Gesundheitssystem hinsichtlich der Informationssicherheit und des Datenschutzes weiterer Gestaltungsbedarf. Bei zielgerichtetem Einsatz von digitalen Anwendungen wie der strukturierten Befundung und der Telemedizin können optimale Voraussetzungen für den zunehmenden Einsatz von künstlicher Intelligenz im Fachgebiet der Urologie geschaffen werden.

[PI-RADS 2.1 and structured reporting of magnetic resonance imaging of the prostate]

Klinisches/methodisches Problem

Die Identifikation klinisch signifikanter Prostatakarzinome bei gleichzeitigem Vermeiden einer Überdiagnostik niedrigmaligner Tumoren stellt eine Herausforderung in der klinischen Routine dar.

Radiologische Standardverfahren

Die gemäß PI-RADS-Richtlinien (Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System Guidelines) akquirierte und interpretierte multiparametrische Magnetresonanztomographie (MRT) der Prostata ist als klinischer Standard bei Urologen und Radiologen akzeptiert.

Methodische Innovationen

Die PI-RADS-Richtlinien sind neu auf Version 2.1 aktualisiert worden und beinhalten neben präzisierten technischen Anforderungen einzelne Änderungen in der Läsionsbewertung.

Leistungsfähigkeit

Die PI-RADS-Richtlinien haben entscheidende Bedeutung in der Standardisierung der multiparametrischen MRT der Prostata erlangt und bieten Vorlagen zur strukturierten Befundung, was die Kommunikation mit dem Zuweiser erleichtert.

Bewertung

Die nun auf Version 2.1 aktualisierten Richtlinien stellen eine Verfeinerung der verbreiteten Version 2.0 dar. Dabei wurden viele Aspekte der Befundung präzisiert, einige vorbekannte Limitationen bleiben jedoch bestehen und erfordern die weitere Verbesserung der Richtlinien in kommenden Versionen.

State of the art in abdominal MRI structured reporting: a review

In the management of several abdominal disorders, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has the potential to significantly improve patient's outcome due to its diagnostic accuracy leading to more appropriate treatment choice. However, its clinical value heavily relies on the quality and quantity of diagnostic information that radiologists manage to convey through their reports. To solve issues such as ambiguity and lack of comprehensiveness that can occur with conventional narrative reports, the adoption of structured reporting has been proposed. Using a checklist and standardized lexicon, structured reports are designed to increase clarity while assuring that all key imaging findings related to a specific disorder are included. Unfortunately, structured reports have their limitations too, such as risk of undue report simplification and poor template plasticity. Their adoption is also far from widespread, and probably the ideal balance between radiologist autonomy and report consistency of has yet to be found. In this article, we aimed to provide an overview of structured reporting proposals for abdominal MRI and of works assessing its value in comparison to conventional free-text reporting. While for several abdominal disorders there are structured templates that have been endorsed by scientific societies and their adoption might be beneficial, stronger evidence confirming their imperativeness and added value in terms of clinical practice is needed, especially regarding the improvement of patient outcome.

Structured prostate MRI reporting: how and why

Over the past decade, the Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) has revolutionized the manner in which prostate cancer is screened for, detected, biopsied, and managed. The single greatest contribution of PI-RADS has been the standardization of interpretation and reporting of findings on MRI of the prostate. This standardization has led to the wide acceptance of the PI-RADS lexicon at a time when structured reporting templates are becoming more widespread in radiology and other medical fields. The author reviews the benefits of structured reporting templates with a focus on prostate MRI, prior studies on this topic, and details of a suggested template.

The role of structured reporting and structured operation planning in functional endoscopic sinus surgery

Computed tomography (CT) scans represent the gold standard in the planning of functional endoscopic sinus surgeries (FESS). Yet, radiologists and otolaryngologists have different perspectives on these scans. In general, residents often struggle with aspects involved in both reporting and operation planning. The aim of this study was to compare the completeness of structured reports (SR) of preoperative CT images and structured operation planning (SOP) to conventional reports (CR) and conventional operation planning (COP) to potentially improve future treatment decisions on an individual level. In total, 30 preoperative CT scans obtained for surgical planning of patients scheduled for FESS were evaluated using SR and CR by radiology residents. Subsequently, otolaryngology residents performed a COP using free texts and a SOP using a specific template. All radiology reports and operation plannings were evaluated by two experienced FESS surgeons regarding their completeness for surgical planning. User satisfaction of otolaryngology residents was assessed by using visual analogue scales. Overall radiology report completeness was significantly higher using SRs regarding surgically important structures compared to CRs (84.4 vs. 22.0%, p<0.001). SOPs produced significantly higher completeness ratings (97% vs. 39.4%, p<0.001) regarding pathologies and anatomical variances. Moreover, time efficiency was not significantly impaired by implementation of SR (148 s vs. 160 s, p = 0.61) and user satisfaction was significantly higher for SOP (VAS 8.1 vs. 4.1, p<0.001). Implementation of SR and SOP results in a significantly increased completeness of radiology reports and operation planning for FESS. Consequently, the combination of both facilitates surgical planning and may decrease potential risks during FESS.

Improving radiologic communication in oncology: a single-centre experience with structured reporting for cancer patients

Objectives

Our aim was to develop a structured reporting concept (structured oncology report, SOR) for general follow-up assessment of cancer patients in clinical routine. Furthermore, we analysed the report quality of SOR compared to conventional reports (CR) as assessed by referring oncologists.

Methods

SOR was designed to provide standardised layout, tabulated tumour burden documentation and standardised conclusion using uniform terminology. A software application for reporting was programmed to ensure consistency of layout and vocabulary and to facilitate utilisation of SOR. Report quality was analysed for 25 SOR and 25 CR retrospectively by 6 medical oncologists using a 7-point scale (score 1 representing the best score) for 6 questionnaire items addressing different elements of report quality and overall satisfaction. A score of ≤ 3 was defined as a positive rating.

Results

In the first year after full implementation, 7471 imaging examinations were reported using SOR. The proportion of SOR in relation to all oncology reports increased from 49 to 95% within a few months. Report quality scores were better for SOR for each questionnaire item (p < 0.001 each). Averaged over all questionnaire item scores were 1.98 ± 1.22 for SOR and 3.05 ± 1.93 for CR (p < 0.001). The overall satisfaction score was 2.15 ± 1.32 for SOR and 3.39 ± 2.08 for CR (p < 0.001). The proportion of positive ratings was higher for SOR (89% versus 67%; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Department-wide structured reporting for follow-up imaging performed for assessment of anticancer treatment efficacy is feasible using a dedicated software application. Satisfaction of referring oncologist with report quality is superior for structured reports.

Comparison of Urologist Satisfaction for Different Types of Prostate MRI Reports: A Large Sample Investigation

Objective

To evaluate urologist satisfaction on structured prostate MRI reports, including report with tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) staging (report B) and with Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) score with/without TNM staging (report C, report with PI-RADS score only [report C-a] and report with PI-RADS score and TNM staging [C-b]) compared with conventional free-text report (report A).

Materials and Methods

This was a prospective comparative study. Altogether, 3015 prostate MRI reports including reports A, B, C-a, and C-b were rated by 13 urologists using a 5-point Likert Scale. A questionnaire was used to assess urologist satisfaction based on the following parameters: correctness, practicality, and urologist subjectivity. Kruskal-Wallis H-test followed by Nemenyi test was used to compare urologists' satisfaction parameters for each report type. The rate of urologist-radiologist recalls for each report type was calculated.

Results

Reports B and C including its subtypes had higher ratings of satisfaction than report A for overall satisfaction degree, and parameters of correctness, practicality, and subjectivity (p < 0.05). There was a significant difference between report B and C (p < 0.05) in practicality score, but no statistical difference was found in overall satisfaction degree, and correctness and subjectivity scores (p > 0.05). Compared with report C-b (p > 0.05), report B and C-a (p < 0.05) showed a significant difference in overall satisfaction degree and parameters of practicality and subjectivity. In terms of correctness score, neither report C-a nor C-b had a significant difference with report B (p > 0.05). No statistical difference was found between report C-a and C-b in overall satisfaction degree and all three parameters (p > 0.05). The rate of urologist-radiologist recalls for reports A, B, C-a and C-b were 29.1%, 10.8%, 18.1% and 11.2%, respectively.

Conclusion

Structured reports, either using TNM or PI-RADS are highly preferred over conventional free-text reports and lead to fewer report-related post-hoc inquiries from urologists.

Novices in MRI-targeted prostate biopsy benefit from structured reporting of MRI findings

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate whether structured reports (SRs) of prostate MRI results are more suitable than non-structured reports (NSRs) for promoting the more accurate assessment of the location of a single prostate cancer lesion by novices in MRI-targeted biopsy.

METHODS

50 NSRs and 50 SRs describing a single prostatic lesion were presented to 5 novices in MRI-targeted biopsy. The participants were asked to plot the tumor location in a two-dimensional prostate diagram and to answer a questionnaire on the quality of the reports. The accuracy of the plotted tumor position was evaluated with a validated 30-point scoring system that distinguished between "major" and "minor" mistakes.

RESULTS

The overall mean score for the accuracy of the tumor plotting was significantly higher for SRs than for NSRs (26.4 vs. 20.7, p < 0.01). The mean numbers of major (1.4 vs. 0.48, p < 0.01) and minor (3.05 vs. 1.15, p < 0.01) mistakes were significantly higher for NSRs than for SRs. Compared with NSRs, SRs received significantly higher ratings for the perceived quality of the summary (4.0 vs. 2.4, p < 0.01) as well as for the overall satisfaction with the report (4.1 vs. 2.1, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Novices in MRI-targeted biopsy prefer structured reporting of prostate MRI as an information tool. SRs allow for a more accurate assessment of the location of single prostate cancer lesions. Therefore, structured reporting of prostate MRI may help to foster the learning process of novices in MRI-targeted biopsy.