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Thurlow LE, Van Dam PJ, Prior SJ, Tran V. How Tasmanian Emergency Departments 'Choose Wisely' When Investigating Suspected Pulmonary Embolism. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11111599. [PMID: 37297739 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11111599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Overuse of computed tomography pulmonary angiograms (CTPAs) for diagnosis of pulmonary embolism (PE) has been recognised as an issue for over ten years, with Choosing Wisely Australia recommending that CTPAs only be ordered if indicated by a clinical practice guideline (CPG). This study aimed to explore the use of evidence-based practice within regional Tasmanian emergency departments in relation to CTPA orders by determining whether CTPAs were ordered in accordance with validated CPGs. We conducted a retrospective medical record review of all patients who underwent CTPA across all public emergency departments in Tasmania between 1 August 2018 and 31 December 2019 inclusive. Data from 2758 CTPAs across four emergency departments were included. PE was reported in 343 (12.4%) of CTPAs conducted, with yield ranging from 8.2% to 16.1% between the four sites. Overall, 52.1% of participants had neither a CPG documented, nor a D-dimer conducted before their scan. A CPG was documented before 11.8% of scans, while D-dimer was conducted before 43% of CTPAs. The findings presented in this study indicate that Tasmanian emergency departments are not consistently 'Choosing Wisely' when investigating PE. Further research is required to identify explanations for these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E Thurlow
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
| | - Pieter J Van Dam
- School of Nursing, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Burnie, TAS 7320, Australia
| | - Sarah J Prior
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Burnie, TAS 7320, Australia
| | - Viet Tran
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
- Emergency Department, Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
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Roy PM, Moumneh T, Bizouard T, Duval D, Douillet D. How to Combat Over-Testing for Patients Suspected of Pulmonary Embolism: A Narrative Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13071326. [PMID: 37046544 PMCID: PMC10093278 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13071326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The diagnosis of PE remains difficult in 2023 because the signs and symptoms are not sensible nor specific. The consequences of potential diagnostic errors can be dramatic, whether by default or by excess. Furthermore, the achievement of a simple diagnostic strategy, based on clinical probability assessment, D-dimer measurement and computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) leads to a new challenge for PE diagnosis: over-testing. Indeed, since the 2000s, the wide availability of CTPA resulted in a major increase in investigations with a mod I confirm erate increase in PE diagnosis, without any notable improvement in patient outcomes. Quite the contrary, the complications of anticoagulation for PE increased significantly, and the long-term consequences of imaging diagnostic radiation is an important concern, especially the risk of breast cancer for young women. As a result, several strategies have been proposed to fight over-testing. They are mostly based on defining a subgroup of patients for whom no specific exam should be required to rule-out PE and adjusting the D-dimer cutoff to allow the exclusion of PE without performing CTPA. This narrative review presents the advantages and limitations of these different strategies as well as the perspective in PE diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Marie Roy
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University Hospital of Angers, Avenue of the Hotel Dieu, 49100 Angers, France
- UMR MitoVasc CNRS 6215 INSERM 1083, University Angers, 49100 Angers, France
- FCRIN, INNOVTE, 42023 Saint-Étienne, France
| | - Thomas Moumneh
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University Hospital of Tours, Avenue of the Republic, 37044 Tours, France
| | - Thomas Bizouard
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University Hospital of Angers, Avenue of the Hotel Dieu, 49100 Angers, France
| | - Damien Duval
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University Hospital of Angers, Avenue of the Hotel Dieu, 49100 Angers, France
| | - Delphine Douillet
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University Hospital of Angers, Avenue of the Hotel Dieu, 49100 Angers, France
- UMR MitoVasc CNRS 6215 INSERM 1083, University Angers, 49100 Angers, France
- FCRIN, INNOVTE, 42023 Saint-Étienne, France
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Leung T, Dauber-Decker K, Solomon J, Khan S, Barnaby D, Chelico J, Qiu M, Liu Y, Mann D, Pekmezaris R, McGinn T, Diefenbach M. Nudging Health Care Providers' Adoption of Clinical Decision Support: Protocol for the User-Centered Development of a Behavioral Economics-Inspired Electronic Health Record Tool. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e42653. [PMID: 36652293 PMCID: PMC9892982 DOI: 10.2196/42653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The improvements in care resulting from clinical decision support (CDS) have been significantly limited by consistently low health care provider adoption. Health care provider attitudes toward CDS, specifically psychological and behavioral barriers, are not typically addressed during any stage of CDS development, although they represent an important barrier to adoption. Emerging evidence has shown the surprising power of using insights from the field of behavioral economics to address psychological and behavioral barriers. Nudges are formal applications of behavioral economics, defined as positive reinforcement and indirect suggestions that have a nonforced effect on decision-making. OBJECTIVE Our goal is to employ a user-centered design process to develop a CDS tool-the pulmonary embolism (PE) risk calculator-for PE risk stratification in the emergency department that incorporates a behavior theory-informed nudge to address identified behavioral barriers to use. METHODS All study activities took place at a large academic health system in the New York City metropolitan area. Our study used a user-centered and behavior theory-based approach to achieve the following two aims: (1) use mixed methods to identify health care provider barriers to the use of an active CDS tool for PE risk stratification and (2) develop a new CDS tool-the PE risk calculator-that addresses behavioral barriers to health care providers' adoption of CDS by incorporating nudges into the user interface. These aims were guided by the revised Observational Research Behavioral Information Technology model. A total of 50 clinicians who used the original version of the tool were surveyed with a quantitative instrument that we developed based on a behavior theory framework-the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behavior framework. A semistructured interview guide was developed based on the survey responses. Inductive methods were used to analyze interview session notes and audio recordings from 12 interviews. Revised versions of the tool were developed that incorporated nudges. RESULTS Functional prototypes were developed by using Axure PRO (Axure Software Solutions) software and usability tested with end users in an iterative agile process (n=10). The tool was redesigned to address 4 identified major barriers to tool use; we included 2 nudges and a default. The 6-month pilot trial for the tool was launched on October 1, 2021. CONCLUSIONS Clinicians highlighted several important psychological and behavioral barriers to CDS use. Addressing these barriers, along with conducting traditional usability testing, facilitated the development of a tool with greater potential to transform clinical care. The tool will be tested in a prospective pilot trial. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/42653.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jeffrey Solomon
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
| | - Sundas Khan
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Douglas Barnaby
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
| | | | - Michael Qiu
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
| | - Yan Liu
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
| | - Devin Mann
- New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Renee Pekmezaris
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
| | - Thomas McGinn
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States.,CommonSpirit Health, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Michael Diefenbach
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
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Diagnostic Strategy for Suspected Pulmonary Embolism in Emergency Departments Based on the 4-Level Pulmonary Embolism Clinical Probability Score: Study Protocol of SPEED&PEPS Trial. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12123101. [PMID: 36553108 PMCID: PMC9777430 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12123101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Several strategies have been devised to safely limit the use of thoracic imaging in patients suspected of pulmonary embolism (PE). However, they are based on different rules for clinical probability (CP) assessment, rendering their combination difficult. The four-level pulmonary embolism probability score (4PEPS) allows the combination of all other strategies using a single CP assessment. Methods and analysis: Pragmatic cluster-randomized trial in 20 EDs. Patients with suspected PE will be included and followed for 90 days (number of patients to be included: 2560, 1280 in each arm). Ten centers will be allocated to the control group where physicians will be free to do as they see fit but they will be given the recommendation to apply a validated strategy. Ten centers will be allocated to the interventional group where the physicians will be given the recommendation to apply the 4PEPS strategy. The primary objective will be to demonstrate that the application of the 4PEPS strategy by the emergency physicians, in comparison to current practices, (i) does not increase the risk of serious events related to diagnostic strategies and (ii) significantly reduces the use of thoracic imaging. Ethics and dissemination: The study will be submitted for approval to an institutional ethics review board for all participating centers. If successful, the SPEED&PEPS trial will have an important impact for patients suspected of PE limiting their irradiation and for public health in substantial savings in terms of the direct cost of diagnostic investigations and the indirect cost of hospitalizations due to waiting times or delayed harmful effects. Funding: This work is funded by a French Public Health grant (PREPS-N 2019). The funding source plays no role in the study design, data collection, analysis, interpretation or the writing of the manuscript. Trial registration: ongoing. Trial status: not started.
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Radiation Exposure and Lifetime Attributable Risk of Cancer Incidence and Mortality from Low- and Standard-Dose CT Chest: Implications for COVID-19 Pneumonia Subjects. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12123043. [PMID: 36553050 PMCID: PMC9777015 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12123043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, there has been an unprecedented increase in the acquisition of chest computed tomography (CT) scans. Nearly 616 million people have been infected by COVID-19 worldwide to date, of whom many were subjected to CT scanning. CT exposes the patients to hazardous ionizing radiation, which can damage the genetic material in the cells, leading to stochastic health effects in the form of heritable genetic mutations and increased cancer risk. These probabilistic, long-term carcinogenic effects of radiation can be seen over a lifetime and may sometimes take several decades to manifest. This review briefly describes what is known about the health effects of radiation, the lowest dose for which there exists compelling evidence about increased radiation-induced cancer risk and the evidence regarding this risk at typical CT doses. The lifetime attributable risk (LAR) of cancer from low- and standard-dose chest CT scans performed in COVID-19 subjects is also discussed along with the projected number of future cancers that could be related to chest CT scans performed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The LAR of cancer Incidence from chest CT has also been compared with those from other radiation sources, daily life risks and lifetime baseline risk.
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Cao CF, Ma KL, Shan H, Liu TF, Zhao SQ, Wan Y, Jun-Zhang, Wang HQ. CT Scans and Cancer Risks: A Systematic Review and Dose-response Meta-analysis. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:1238. [PMID: 36451138 PMCID: PMC9710150 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-10310-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is still uncertainty on whether ionizing radiation from CT scans can increase the risks of cancer. This study aimed to identify the association of cumulative ionizing radiation from CT scans with pertaining cancer risks in adults. METHODS Five databases were searched from their inception to November 15, 2020. Observational studies reporting cancer risks from CT scans in adults were included. The main outcome included quantified cancer risks as cancer case numbers in exposed/unexposed adult participants with unified converted measures to odds ratio (OR) for relative risk, hazard ratio. Global background radiation (2.4 mSv per year) was used as control for lifetime attribution risk (LAR), with the same period from incubation after exposure until survival to 100 years. RESULTS 25 studies were included with a sum of 111,649,943 participants (mean age: 45.37 years, 83.4% women), comprising 2,049,943 actual participants from 6 studies with an average follow-up period as 30.1 years (range, 5 to 80 years); 109,600,000 participants from 19 studies using LAR. The cancer risks for adults following CT scans were inordinately increased (LAR adults, OR, 10.00 [95% CI, 5.87 to 17.05]; actual adults, OR, 1.17 [95%CI, 0.89 to 1.55]; combined, OR, 5.89 [95%CI, 3.46 to 10.35]). Moreover, cancer risks elevated with increase of radiation dose (OR, 33.31 [95% CI, 21.33 to 52.02]), and multiple CT scan sites (OR, 14.08 [95% CI, 6.60 to 30.05]). The risk of solid malignancy was higher than leukemia. Notably, there were no significant differences for age, gender, country, continent, study quality and studying time phrases. CONCLUSIONS Based on 111.6 million adult participants from 3 continents (Asia, Europe and America), this meta-analysis identifies an inordinately increase in cancer risks from CT scans for adults. Moreover, the cancer risks were positively correlated with radiation dose and CT sites. The meta-analysis highlights the awareness of potential cancer risks of CT scans as well as more reasonable methodology to quantify cancer risks in terms of life expectancy as 100 years for LAR. PROSPERO TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42019133487.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Feng Cao
- grid.203458.80000 0000 8653 0555Department of Orthopedics, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Hua Road, No. 439, Yongchuan, 402160 Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kun-Long Ma
- grid.203458.80000 0000 8653 0555Department of Orthopedics, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Hua Road, No. 439, Yongchuan, 402160 Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hua Shan
- grid.449637.b0000 0004 0646 966XInstitute of Integrative Medicine, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xixian Avenue, Xixian District, Xi’an, 712046 Shaanxi Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Tang-Fen Liu
- grid.449637.b0000 0004 0646 966XInstitute of Integrative Medicine, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xixian Avenue, Xixian District, Xi’an, 712046 Shaanxi Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Si-Qiao Zhao
- grid.412262.10000 0004 1761 5538Department of Orthopedics, No.1 Hospital of Xi’an City, Northwestern University, Xi’an, 710002 Shaanxi Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi Wan
- grid.233520.50000 0004 1761 4404Department of Health Services, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, 710032 No.169 West Changle Road, Shaanxi Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Jun-Zhang
- grid.489934.bBaoji Central Hospital, 8 Jiangtan Road, Baoji, 721008 Shaanxi Province People’s Republic of China ,grid.43169.390000 0001 0599 1243School of Public Health, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an, 710061 Shaanxi Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Hai-Qiang Wang
- grid.449637.b0000 0004 0646 966XInstitute of Integrative Medicine, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xixian Avenue, Xixian District, Xi’an, 712046 Shaanxi Province People’s Republic of China
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Zhao R, Sui X, Qin R, Du H, Song L, Tian D, Wang J, Lu X, Wang Y, Song W, Jin Z. Can deep learning improve image quality of low-dose CT: a prospective study in interstitial lung disease. Eur Radiol 2022; 32:8140-8151. [PMID: 35748899 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-022-08870-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate whether deep learning reconstruction (DLR) could keep image quality and reduce radiation dose in interstitial lung disease (ILD) patients compared with HRCT reconstructed with hybrid iterative reconstruction (hybrid-IR). METHODS Seventy ILD patients were prospectively enrolled and underwent HRCT (120 kVp, automatic tube current) and LDCT (120 kVp, 30 mAs) scans. HRCT images were reconstructed with hybrid-IR (Adaptive Iterative Dose Reduction 3-Dimensional [AIDR3D], standard-setting); LDCT images were reconstructed with DLR (Advanced Intelligence Clear-IQ Engine [AiCE], lung/bone, mild/standard/strong setting). Image noise, streak artifact, overall image quality, and visualization of normal and abnormal features of ILD were evaluated. RESULTS The mean radiation dose of LDCT was 38% of HRCT. Objective image noise of reconstructed LDCT images was 33.6 to 111.3% of HRCT, and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) was 0.9 to 3.1 times of the latter (p < 0.001). LDCT-AiCE was not significantly different from or even better than HRCT in overall image quality and visualization of normal lung structures. LDCT-AiCE (lung, mild/standard/strong) showed progressively better recognition of ground glass opacity than HRCT-AIDR3D (p < 0.05, p < 0.01, p < 0.001), and LDCT-AiCE (lung, mild/standard/strong; bone, mild) was superior to HRCT-AIDR3D in visualization of architectural distortion (p < 0.01, p < 0.01, p < 0.01; p < 0.05). LDCT-AiCE (bone, strong) was better than HRCT-AIDR3D in the assessment of bronchiectasis and/or bronchiolectasis (p < 0.05). LDCT-AiCE (bone, mild/standard/strong) was significantly better at the visualization of honeycombing than HRCT-AIDR3D (p < 0.05, p < 0.05, p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Deep learning reconstruction could effectively reduce radiation dose and keep image quality in ILD patients compared to HRCT with hybrid-IR. KEY POINTS • Deep learning reconstruction was a novel image reconstruction algorithm based on deep convolutional neural networks. It was applied in chest CT studies and received auspicious results. • HRCT plays an essential role in the whole process of diagnosis, treatment efficacy evaluation, and follow-ups for interstitial lung disease patients. However, cumulative radiation exposure could increase the risks of cancer. • Deep learning reconstruction method could effectively reduce the radiation dose and keep the image quality compared with HRCT reconstructed with hybrid iterative reconstruction in patients with interstitial lung disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijie Zhao
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xin Sui
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Ruiyao Qin
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Huayang Du
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Lan Song
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Duxue Tian
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Jinhua Wang
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xiaoping Lu
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yun Wang
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Wei Song
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China.
| | - Zhengyu Jin
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Thurlow LE, Van Dam PJ, Prior SJ, Tran V. Use of Computed Tomography Pulmonary Angiography in Emergency Departments: A Literature Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10050753. [PMID: 35627890 PMCID: PMC9140691 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10050753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) has become the most widely used technique for diagnosis or exclusion of a pulmonary embolism (PE). It has been suggested that overuse of this imaging type may be prevalent, especially in emergency departments (EDs). The purpose of this literature review was to explore the use of CTPAs in EDs worldwide. A review following PRISMA guidelines was completed, with research published between September 2010 and August 2020 included. Five key topics emerged: use of CTPAs; explanations for overuse; use of D-dimer; variability in ordering practices between clinicians; and strategies to reduce overuse. This review found that CTPAs continue to be overused in EDs, leading to superfluous risks to patients. Published studies identify that while clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) have a strong effect on reducing unnecessary CTPAs with no significantly increased risk of missed diagnosis, the adoption of these tools by ED clinicians has remained low. This literature review highlights the need for further research into why CTPAs continue to be overused within EDs and why clinicians are hesitant to use CPGs in the clinical setting. Moreover, investigations into other potential strategies that may combat the overuse of this diagnostic tool are essential to reduce potential harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E. Thurlow
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Pieter J. Van Dam
- School of Nursing, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Burnie, TAS 7320, Australia;
| | - Sarah J. Prior
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Burnie, TAS 7320, Australia;
| | - Viet Tran
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia;
- Emergency Department, Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
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Zhang NJ, Rameau P, Julemis M, Liu Y, Solomon J, Khan S, McGinn T, Richardson S. Automated Pulmonary Embolism Risk Assessment Using the Wells Criteria: Validation Study. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e32230. [PMID: 35225812 PMCID: PMC8922138 DOI: 10.2196/32230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) is frequently used in the emergency department (ED) for the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism (PE), while posing risk for contrast-induced nephropathy and radiation-induced malignancy. Objective We aimed to create an automated process to calculate the Wells score for pulmonary embolism for patients in the ED, which could potentially reduce unnecessary CTPA testing. Methods We designed an automated process using electronic health records data elements, including using a combinatorial keyword search method to query free-text fields, and calculated automated Wells scores for a sample of all adult ED encounters that resulted in a CTPA study for PE at 2 tertiary care hospitals in New York, over a 2-month period. To validate the automated process, the scores were compared to those derived from a 2-clinician chart review. Results A total of 202 ED encounters resulted in a completed CTPA to form the retrospective study cohort. Patients classified as “PE likely” by the automated process (126/202, 62%) had a PE prevalence of 15.9%, whereas those classified as “PE unlikely” (76/202, 38%; Wells score >4) had a PE prevalence of 7.9%. With respect to classification of the patient as “PE likely,” the automated process achieved an accuracy of 92.1% when compared with the chart review, with sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 93%, 90.5%, 94.4%, and 88.2%, respectively. Conclusions This was a successful development and validation of an automated process using electronic health records data elements, including free-text fields, to classify risk for PE in ED visits.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yan Liu
- Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
| | | | - Sundas Khan
- Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
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Roy PM, Douillet D, Penaloza A. Contemporary management of acute pulmonary embolism. Trends Cardiovasc Med 2021; 32:259-268. [PMID: 34214598 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcm.2021.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This review examines the recent progress in the initial management of pulmonary embolism (PE). Diagnostic strategies allowing the safe decrease of imaging testing have been proposed. New modalities of catheter-based interventions have emerged for hemodynamically unstable PE patients. For normotensive PE patients, direct oral anticoagulant treatment has become the new norm and a large proportion of patients are eligible for home treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Marie Roy
- Angers University Hospital, Emergency Department; UNIV Angers, Health Faculty, UMR MitoVasc CNRS 6015 - INSERM 1083, Equipe CarMe; F-CRIN INNOVTE; Angers, France.
| | - Delphine Douillet
- Angers University Hospital, Emergency Department; UNIV Angers, Health Faculty, UMR MitoVasc CNRS 6015 - INSERM 1083, Equipe CarMe; F-CRIN INNOVTE; Angers, France
| | - Andrea Penaloza
- Cliniques Universitaires Saint Luc, Emrgency Department; UCLouvain; F-CRIN INNOVTE; Brussels, Belgium.
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Roy PM, Friou E, Germeau B, Douillet D, Kline JA, Righini M, Le Gal G, Moumneh T, Penaloza A. Derivation and Validation of a 4-Level Clinical Pretest Probability Score for Suspected Pulmonary Embolism to Safely Decrease Imaging Testing. JAMA Cardiol 2021; 6:669-677. [PMID: 33656522 PMCID: PMC7931139 DOI: 10.1001/jamacardio.2021.0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Importance In patients with suspected pulmonary embolism (PE), overuse of diagnostic imaging is an important point of concern. Objective To derive and validate a 4-level pretest probability rule (4-Level Pulmonary Embolism Clinical Probability Score [4PEPS]) that makes it possible to rule out PE solely on clinical criteria and optimized D-dimer measurement to safely decrease imaging testing for suspected PE. Design, Setting, and Participants This study included consecutive outpatients suspected of having PE from US and European emergency departments. Individual data from 3 merged management studies (n = 11 114; overall prevalence of PE, 11%) were used for the derivation cohort and internal validation cohort. The external validation cohorts were taken from 2 independent studies, the first with a high PE prevalence (n = 1548; prevalence, 21.5%) and the second with a moderate PE prevalence (n = 1669; prevalence, 11.7%). A prior definition of pretest probability target values to achieve a posttest probability less than 2% was used on the basis of the negative likelihood ratios of D-dimer. Data were collected from January 2003 to April 2016, and data were analyzed from June 2018 to August 2019. Main Outcomes and Measures The rate of PE diagnosed during the initial workup or during follow-up and the rate of imaging testing. Results Of the 5588 patients in the derivation cohort, 3441 (61.8%) were female, and the mean (SD) age was 52 (18.5) years. The 4PEPS comprises 13 clinical variables scored from -2 to 5. It results in the following strategy: (1) very low probability of PE if 4PEPS is less than 0: PE ruled out without testing; (2) low probability of PE if 4PEPS is 0 to 5: PE ruled out if D-dimer level is less than 1.0 μg/mL; (3) moderate probability of PE if 4PEPS is 6 to 12: PE ruled out if D-dimer level is less than the age-adjusted cutoff value; (4) high probability of PE if 4PEPS is greater than 12: PE ruled out by imaging without preceding D-dimer test. In the first and the second external validation cohorts, the area under the receiver operator characteristic curves were 0.79 (95% CI, 0.76 to 0.82) and 0.78 (95% CI, 0.74 to 0.81), respectively. The false-negative testing rates if the 4PEPS strategy had been applied were 0.71% (95% CI, 0.37 to 1.23) and 0.89% (95% CI, 0.53 to 1.49), respectively. The absolute reductions in imaging testing were -22% (95% CI, -26 to -19) and -19% (95% CI, -22 to -16) in the first and second external validation cohorts, respectively. The 4PEPS strategy compared favorably with all recent strategies in terms of imaging testing. Conclusions and Relevance The 4PEPS strategy may lead to a substantial and safe reduction in imaging testing for patients with suspected PE. It should now be tested in a formal outcome study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Marie Roy
- Emergency Department, CHU Angers, Institut Mitovasc UMR (CNRS 6015-INSERM 1083), UNIV Angers, F-CRIN INNOVTE, Angers, France
| | - Emilie Friou
- Emergency Department, CHU Angers, Angers, France
| | - Boris Germeau
- Emergency Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Delphine Douillet
- Emergency Department, CHU Angers, Institut Mitovasc UMR (CNRS 6015-INSERM 1083), UNIV Angers, F-CRIN INNOVTE, Angers, France
| | - Jeffrey Allen Kline
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis
| | - Marc Righini
- Division of Angiology and Hemostasis, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Grégoire Le Gal
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, The Ottawa Hospital, Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Thomas Moumneh
- Emergency Department, CHU Angers, Institut Mitovasc UMR (CNRS 6015-INSERM 1083), UNIV Angers, F-CRIN INNOVTE, Angers, France
| | - Andrea Penaloza
- Emergency Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, F-CRIN INNOVTE, Brussels, Belgium
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Bond C, Morgenstern J, Heitz C, Milne WK. Hot Off the Press: Tell Me How To Diagnose a Pulmonary Embolism. Acad Emerg Med 2021; 28:367-369. [PMID: 32662078 DOI: 10.1111/acem.14086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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13
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Douillet D, Roy PM, Penaloza A. Suspected Acute Pulmonary Embolism: Gestalt, Scoring Systems, and Artificial Intelligence. Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2021; 42:176-182. [PMID: 33592653 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1723936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Pulmonary embolism (PE) remains a diagnostic challenge in 2021. As the pathology is potentially fatal and signs and symptoms are nonspecific, further investigations are classically required. Based on the Bayesian approach, clinical probability became the keystone of the diagnostic strategy to rule out PE in the case of a negative testing. Several clinical probability assessment methods are validated: gestalt, the Wells score, or the revised Geneva score. While the debate persists as to the best way to assess clinical probability, its assessment allows for the good interpretation of the investigation results and therefore directs the correct diagnostic strategy. The wide availability of computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) resulted in a major increase in investigations with a moderate increase in diagnosis, without any notable improvement in patient outcomes. This leads to a new challenge for PE diagnosis which is the limitation of the number of testing for suspected PE. We review different strategies recently developed to achieve this goal. The last challenge concerns the implementation in clinical practice. Two approaches are developed: simplification of the strategies versus the use of digital support tools allowing more sophisticated strategies. Artificial intelligence with machine-learning algorithms will probably be a future tool to guide the physician in this complex approach concerning acute PE suspicion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delphine Douillet
- Emergency Department, Angers University Hospital, INSERM 1083, Health Faculty, UNIV Angers, F-CRIN INNOVTE, Angers, France
| | - Pierre-Marie Roy
- Emergency Department, Angers University Hospital, INSERM 1083, Health Faculty, UNIV Angers, F-CRIN INNOVTE, Angers, France
| | - Andrea Penaloza
- Emergency Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint Luc, UCLouvain, F-CRIN INNOVTE, Brussels, Belgium
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14
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Westafer LM, Kunz A, Bugajska P, Hughes A, Mazor KM, Schoenfeld EM, Stefan MS, Lindenauer PK. Provider Perspectives on the Use of Evidence-based Risk Stratification Tools in the Evaluation of Pulmonary Embolism: A Qualitative Study. Acad Emerg Med 2020; 27:447-456. [PMID: 32220127 PMCID: PMC7418048 DOI: 10.1111/acem.13908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Providers often pursue imaging in patients at low risk of pulmonary embolism (PE), resulting in imaging yields <10% and false-positive imaging rates of 10% to 25%. Attempts to curb overtesting have had only modest success and no interventions have used implementation science frameworks. The objective of this study was to identify barriers and facilitators to the adoption of evidence-based diagnostic testing for PE. METHODS We conducted semistructured interviews with a purposeful sample of providers. An interview guide was developed using the implementation science frameworks, consolidated framework for implementation research, and theoretical domains framework. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed in an iterative process. Emergent themes were identified, discussed, and organized. RESULTS We interviewed 23 providers from four hospital systems, and participants were diverse with regard to years in practice and practice setting. Barriers were predominately at the provider level and included lack of knowledge of the tools, particularly misunderstanding of the validated scoring systems in Wells, as well as risk avoidance and need for certainty. Barriers to prior implementation strategies included the perception of a clinical decision support (CDS) tool for PE as adding steps with little value; most participants reported that they overrode CDS interventions because they had already made the decision. All providers identified institution-level strategies as facilitators to use, including endorsed guidelines, audit feedback with peer comparison about imaging yield, and peer pressure. CONCLUSIONS This exploration of the use of risk stratification tools in the evaluation of PE found that barriers to use primarily exist at the provider level, whereas facilitators to the use of these tools are largely perceived at the level of the institution. Future efforts to promote the evidence-based diagnosis of PE should be informed by these determinants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Westafer
- From the, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA
- the, Institute for Healthcare Delivery and Population Science, University of Massachusetts Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA
| | - Ashley Kunz
- From the, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA
| | | | - Amber Hughes
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA
| | - Kathleen M Mazor
- Meyers Primary Care Institute, Worcester, MA
- and the, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA
| | - Elizabeth M Schoenfeld
- From the, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA
- the, Institute for Healthcare Delivery and Population Science, University of Massachusetts Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA
| | - Mihaela S Stefan
- the, Institute for Healthcare Delivery and Population Science, University of Massachusetts Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA
- and the, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA
| | - Peter K Lindenauer
- the, Institute for Healthcare Delivery and Population Science, University of Massachusetts Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA
- and the, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA
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15
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Predictors of Overtesting in Pulmonary Embolism Diagnosis. Acad Radiol 2020; 27:404-408. [PMID: 31155486 DOI: 10.1016/j.acra.2019.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The benefits of computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) for pulmonary embolism (PE) diagnosis must be weighed against its risks, radiation-induced malignancy, and contrast-induced nephropathy. Appropriate use of CTPA can be assessed by monitoring yield, the percentage of tests positive for PE. We identify factors that are associated low CTPA yield, which may predict overtesting. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study of six emergency departments between June 2014 and February 2017. The electronic health record was queried for CTPAs ordered for adult patients in the emergency department. We assessed the following patient factors: age, gender, body mass index, number of comorbidities, race, and ethnicity, provider factors: type (resident, fellow, attending, physician assistant) and environment factors: test time of day, season of visit, and crowdedness of the department. RESULTS A total of 14,782 CTPAs were reviewed, of which 1366 were found to be positive for PE, resulting in an overall CTPA yield of 9.24%. Provider type was not associated with a difference in yield. Testing was less likely to be positive in younger patients, females, those with lower body mass indexes and those identifying as Asian or Hispanic. Testing was also less likely to be positive when ordered during the overnight shift and during the winter and spring seasons. CONCLUSION Our study identified several patient and environmental factors associated with low CTPA yield suggesting potential targets for overtesting. Targeting education and clinical decision support to assist providers in these circumstances may meaningfully improve yields.
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16
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Kline JA, Garrett JS, Sarmiento EJ, Strachan CC, Courtney DM. Over-Testing for Suspected Pulmonary Embolism in American Emergency Departments: The Continuing Epidemic. Circ Cardiovasc Qual Outcomes 2020; 13:e005753. [PMID: 31957477 DOI: 10.1161/circoutcomes.119.005753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND No recent data have investigated rates of diagnostic testing for pulmonary embolism (PE) in US emergency departments (EDs), and no data have examined computed tomographic pulmonary angiography (CTPA) rates in subgroups at high risk for adverse imaging outcomes, including young women and children. We hypothesized that over-testing for PE remains a problem. METHODS AND RESULTS We used electronic health record and billing data for 16 EDs in Indiana and 11 hospitals in the Dallas-Fort Worth area from 2016 to 2019 to locate ED patients who had any of the following: D-dimer, CTPA, scintillation ventilation perfusion lung scanning or formal pulmonary angiography. The primary outcomes were ED encounter volume-adjusted CTPA rate, PE yield rate with subgroup reporting for children (<18 years) and women under 45 years. We also examined the most frequent diagnoses. From a total visit volume of 1 828 010 patient encounters, 97 125 (5.3% of the total volume) had a diagnostic test for PE, including 25 870 patients who had CTPA order without D-dimer (59% of all tests for PE). The yield rate for PE from CTPA scans was 1.3% (1.1%-1.5%) in Indiana and 4.8% (4.2%-5.1%) in Dallas-Fort Worth (pooled rate 3.1%). Linear regression showed that increased D-dimer ordering correlated with increased PE yield rate (Pearson's R2=0.43; P<0.001). From the pooled sample, 59% of CTPAs done were in women, with 21% of all CTPAs performed on women under 45 years of age, and 1.4% (1.3%-1.5%) on children. The most frequent diagnoses were symptom-based descriptions of chest pain (34%) and shortness of breath (6.5%) and the condition-based diagnosis of pneumonia (4.1%). CONCLUSIONS Over-testing for PE in American EDs remains a major public health problem. Centers with higher D-dimer ordering had higher yield of PE on CTPA. These data suggest the potential for implementation of D-dimer based protocols to reduce low-yield CTPA ordering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A Kline
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis (J.A.K., E.J.S., C.C.S.)
| | - John S Garrett
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX (J.S.G.)
| | - Elisa J Sarmiento
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis (J.A.K., E.J.S., C.C.S.)
| | - Christian C Strachan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis (J.A.K., E.J.S., C.C.S.)
| | - D Mark Courtney
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX (D.M.C.)
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17
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Higher Imaging Yield When Clinical Decision Support Is Used. J Am Coll Radiol 2019; 17:496-503. [PMID: 31899178 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacr.2019.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Increased utilization of CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) for the evaluation of pulmonary embolism has been associated with decreasing diagnostic yields and rising concerns about the harms of unnecessary testing. The objective of this study was to determine whether clinical decision support (CDS) use would be associated with increased imaging yields after controlling for selection bias. METHODS We performed a retrospective cohort study in the emergency departments of two tertiary care hospitals of all CTPAs performed between August 2015 and September 2018. Providers ordering a CTPA are routed to an optional CDS tool, which allows them to use Wells' Criteria for pulmonary embolism. After propensity score matching, CTPA yield was calculated for the CDS-use and CDS-dismissal groups and stratified by provider type. RESULTS A total of 7,367 CTPAs were ordered during the study period. Of those, providers used the CDS tool in 2,568 (35%) cases and did not use the tool in 4,799 (65%) of cases. After propensity score matching, CTPA yield was 11.99% in the CDS-use group and 8.70% in the CDS-dismissal group (P < .001). Attending physicians, residents, and physician assistant CDS users demonstrated a 56.5% (P = .006), 38.7% (P = .01), and 16.7% (P = .03) increased yield compared with those who dismissed the tool, respectively. DISCUSSION Diagnostic yield was 38% higher for CTPAs when the provider used the CDS tool, after controlling for selection bias. Yields were higher for every provider type. Further research is needed to discover successful strategies to increase provider use of these important tools.
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18
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Richardson S, Solomon P, O'Connell A, Khan S, Gong J, Makhnevich A, Qiu G, Zhang M, McGinn T. A Computerized Method for Measuring Computed Tomography Pulmonary Angiography Yield in the Emergency Department: Validation Study. JMIR Med Inform 2018; 6:e44. [PMID: 30361200 PMCID: PMC6231863 DOI: 10.2196/medinform.9957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Use of computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) in the assessment of pulmonary embolism (PE) has markedly increased over the past two decades. While this technology has improved the accuracy of radiological testing for PE, CTPA also carries the risk of substantial iatrogenic harm. Each CTPA carries a 14% risk of contrast-induced nephropathy and a lifetime malignancy risk that can be as high as 2.76%. The appropriate use of CTPA can be estimated by monitoring the CTPA yield, the percentage of tests positive for PE. This is the first study to propose and validate a computerized method for measuring the CTPA yield in the emergency department (ED). Objective The objective of our study was to assess the validity of a novel computerized method of calculating the CTPA yield in the ED. Methods The electronic health record databases at two tertiary care academic hospitals were queried for CTPA orders completed in the ED over 1-month periods. These visits were linked with an inpatient admission with a discharge diagnosis of PE based on the International Classification of Diseases codes. The computerized the CTPA yield was calculated as the number of CTPA orders with an associated inpatient discharge diagnosis of PE divided by the total number of orders for completed CTPA. This computerized method was then validated by 2 independent reviewers performing a manual chart review, which included reading the free-text radiology reports for each CTPA. Results A total of 349 CTPA orders were completed during the 1-month periods at the two institutions. Of them, acute PE was diagnosed on CTPA in 28 studies, with a CTPA yield of 7.7%. The computerized method correctly identified 27 of 28 scans positive for PE. The one discordant scan was tied to a patient who was discharged directly from the ED and, as a result, never received an inpatient discharge diagnosis. Conclusions This is the first successful validation study of a computerized method for calculating the CTPA yield in the ED. This method for data extraction allows for an accurate determination of the CTPA yield and is more efficient than manual chart review. With this ability, health care systems can monitor the appropriate use of CTPA and the effect of interventions to reduce overuse and decrease preventable iatrogenic harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safiya Richardson
- Department of Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, United States
| | - Philip Solomon
- Department of Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, United States
| | - Alexander O'Connell
- Department of Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, United States
| | - Sundas Khan
- Department of Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, United States
| | - Jonathan Gong
- Department of Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, United States
| | - Alex Makhnevich
- Department of Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, United States
| | - Guang Qiu
- Department of Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, United States
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, United States
| | - Thomas McGinn
- Department of Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, United States
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Armstrong L, Gleeson F, Mackillop L, Mutch S, Beale A. Survey of UK imaging practice for the investigation of pulmonary embolism in pregnancy. Clin Radiol 2017; 72:696-701. [DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2017.03.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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20
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CT Angiography: Post-processed Contrast Enhancement for Improved Detection of Pulmonary Embolism. Acad Radiol 2017; 24:131-136. [PMID: 27863899 DOI: 10.1016/j.acra.2016.09.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2016] [Revised: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES The study aimed to improve the detection of pulmonary embolism via an iodine contrast enhancement tool in patients who underwent suboptimal enhanced computed tomography angiography (CTA). MATERIALS AND METHODS We evaluated the CT examinations of 41 patients who underwent CTA for evaluation of the pulmonary arteries which suffered from suboptimal contrast enhancement. The contrast enhancement of the reconstructed images was increased via a post-processing tool (vContrast). Image noise and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were assessed in eight different regions: main pulmonary artery, right and left pulmonary arteries, right and left segment arteries, muscle, subcutaneous fat, and bone. For subjective image assessment, three experienced radiologists evaluated the diagnostic quality. RESULTS While employing the post-processing algorithm, the CNR for contrast-filled lumen and thrombus/muscle improves significantly by a factor of 1.7 (CNR without vContrast = 8.48 ± 6.79/CNR with vContrast = 14.46 ± 5.29) (P <0.01). No strengthening of artifacts occurred, and the mean Hounsfield unit values of the muscle, subcutaneous fat, and the bone showed no significant changes. Subjective image analysis illustrated a significant improvement using post-processing for clinically relevant criteria such as diagnostic confidence. CONCLUSIONS vContrast makes CT angiograms with inadequate contrast applicable for diagnostic evaluation, offering an improved visualization of the pulmonary arteries. In addition, vContrast can help in the significant reduction of the iodine contrast material.
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Breast dose reduction for chest CT by modifying the scanning parameters based on the pre-scan size-specific dose estimate (SSDE). Eur Radiol 2016; 27:2267-2274. [DOI: 10.1007/s00330-016-4618-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Revised: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Euler A, Stieltjes B, Schindera ST. Automatic tube current modulation for whole-body polytrauma CT with immobilization devices: is there an increase in radiation dose and degradation of image quality? Emerg Radiol 2016; 24:31-37. [DOI: 10.1007/s10140-016-1442-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2016] [Accepted: 09/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Euler A, Szucs-Farkas Z, Falkowski AL, Kawel-Böhm N, D'Errico L, Kopp S, Bremerich J, Niemann T. Organ-based tube current modulation in a clinical context: Dose reduction may be largely overestimated in breast tissue. Eur Radiol 2015; 26:2656-62. [PMID: 26560717 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-015-4085-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Revised: 09/25/2015] [Accepted: 10/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- André Euler
- Clinic of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Basel Hospital, Petersgraben 4, CH-4031, Basel, Switzerland.
| | | | - Anna L Falkowski
- Clinic of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Basel Hospital, Petersgraben 4, CH-4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nadine Kawel-Böhm
- Institute of Radiology, Cantonal Hospital Graubünden, Chur, Switzerland
| | - Luigia D'Errico
- Clinic of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Basel Hospital, Petersgraben 4, CH-4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sebastién Kopp
- Clinic of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Basel Hospital, Petersgraben 4, CH-4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jens Bremerich
- Clinic of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Basel Hospital, Petersgraben 4, CH-4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tilo Niemann
- Institute of Radiology, Cantonal Hospital Baden, Baden, Switzerland
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Niemann T, Colas L, Roser HW, Santangelo T, Faivre JB, Remy J, Remy-Jardin M, Bremerich J. Estimated risk of radiation-induced cancer from paediatric chest CT: two-year cohort study. Pediatr Radiol 2015; 45:329-36. [PMID: 25274469 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-014-3178-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2013] [Revised: 06/26/2014] [Accepted: 08/26/2014] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increasing absolute number of paediatric CT scans raises concern about the safety and efficacy and the effects of consecutive diagnostic ionising radiation. OBJECTIVE To demonstrate a method to evaluate the lifetime attributable risk of cancer incidence/mortality due to a single low-dose helical chest CT in a two-year patient cohort. MATERIALS AND METHODS A two-year cohort of 522 paediatric helical chest CT scans acquired using a dedicated low-dose protocol were analysed retrospectively. Patient-specific estimations of radiation doses were modelled using three different mathematical phantoms. Per-organ attributable cancer risk was then estimated using epidemiological models. Additional comparison was provided for naturally occurring risks. RESULTS Total lifetime attributable risk of cancer incidence remains low for all age and sex categories, being highest in female neonates (0.34%). Summation of all cancer sites analysed raised the relative lifetime attributable risk of organ cancer incidence up to 3.6% in female neonates and 2.1% in male neonates. CONCLUSION Using dedicated scan protocols, total lifetime attributable risk of cancer incidence and mortality for chest CT is estimated low for paediatric chest CT, being highest for female neonates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tilo Niemann
- Department of Radiology, Cantonal Hospital Baden, Im Ergel 1, 5400, Baden, Switzerland,
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Pontana F, Henry S, Duhamel A, Faivre JB, Tacelli N, Pagniez J, Remy J, Remy-Jardin M. Impact of iterative reconstruction on the diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism (PE) on reduced-dose chest CT angiograms. Eur Radiol 2015; 25:1182-9. [PMID: 25636413 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-014-3393-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2014] [Revised: 07/21/2014] [Accepted: 08/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the impact of iterative reconstruction on the detectability of clots. METHODS AND MATERIALS Fifty-three patients were enrolled in a study comparing reduced-dose and full-dose images, available from the same dual-source data set. From each acquisition, three series of images were generated: (1) full-dose images (from both tubes), reconstructed with filtered back projection (FBP) (group 1; standard of reference), (2) reduced-dose images (from tube A only; 60 % dose reduction) reconstructed with FBP (group 2) and iterative reconstruction (SAFIRE) (group 3). RESULTS In group 1 (mean DLP: 264.6 mGy.cm), (1) PE was diagnosed in 8 patients (15 %) with 82 clots in the central (n = 5), segmental (n = 39) and subsegmental (n = 38) arteries and (2) mean level of noise was 30.56 ± 5.07. In group 2 (mean DLP: 105.8 mGy.cm), a significant increase in noise (44.56 ± 6.24; p < 0.0001) (1) hampered detection of PE in one patient and (2) altered detection of peripheral clots (12 false-negative and 2 false-positive results). In group 3, image noise was not significantly different from that in group 1 (p = 0.1525; effect size: 0.2683), with a similar detection of PE compared to group 1 (p = 1). CONCLUSION Reconstruction of reduced-dose images (60 % dose reduction) with SAFIRE provided image quality and diagnostic value comparable to those of full-dose FBP images. KEY POINTS • Iterative reconstruction does not alter the detection of endoluminal clots. • Iterative reconstruction allows dose reduction in the context of acute PE. • Iterative reconstruction allows radiologists to approach the prospects of submilliSievert CT.
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Affiliation(s)
- François Pontana
- Department of Thoracic Imaging, Hospital Calmette (EA 2694), CHRU et Université de Lille 2 Nord de France, 59000, Lille, France
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Kuo W, Ciet P, Tiddens HAWM, Zhang W, Guillerman RP, van Straten M. Monitoring Cystic Fibrosis Lung Disease by Computed Tomography. Radiation Risk in Perspective. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2014; 189:1328-36. [DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201311-2099ci] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
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