Avoiding Miscommunication in Acute Musculoskeletal Trauma Cases: Use of Standardized Reporting and Classification Schemes

Abstract

Classification schemes can be a key element of a structured radiology report, providing succinct guidance for clinical decision making. Classification systems delineate the location and morphological characteristics of fractures (diagnosis), may provide a graded measure of severity (prognosis), and ideally guide treatment options. Reports structured in this fashion optimize communication between the physician interpreting the examination and the physician directing the patient's treatment. This article reviews the concept and utility of standardized structured radiologic reporting based on templates or checklists to avoid miscommunication in the context of acute musculoskeletal trauma.

Clinical Utility of Indium 111–Labeled White Blood Cell Scintigraphy for Evaluation of Suspected Infection

“…Clinical utility of any test will be influenced by the consistency and clarity with which findings are reported. A standardized way of reporting scan results (as opposed to free-text reporting) may be one way to improve the clinical utility of complex tests such as 111 In-labeled WBC scans; such standardized reporting using checklists has been advocated for other radiographic studies [ 17 ].…”