Coronal reformatted images speed radiologist's body CT readings

Coronal multiplanar reformatted images can replace conventionally used axial images for interpretation in the MDCT evaluation of the GI tract, improving the speed and accuracy of diagnosis, according to a new study by researchers from the Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, GA.

For the study, the researchers reviewed the MDCTs of 50 patients referred for GI tract imaging. The researchers found that the average duration for interpretation of coronal reformats was about half a minute faster than axial images and that an average of 30 more findings for the entire group of patients was reported on coronal evaluations than axial images (an average of 260 vs. 230). The interpreting radiologists' confidence was also found to be higher on coronal evaluations than axial images.

According to the authors, by using coronal reformats, radiologists would have to interpret 30-40% less images per case. "This is very important in today's busy clinical practice. Add this to the fact that the radiologists detected more findings using coronal reformats alone, we are looking at improved work efficiency with additional relevant clinical information, all at no extra cost or extra radiation exposure," said Sunit Sebastian, MD, lead author of the study.

"Since the beginning of CT, radiologists have been trained to use axial images for primary interpretation of body CT images, but if radiologists could get accustomed to using coronal reformats, they could use them solely for primary interpretation of CT scans of the abdomen and pelvis," said Dr. Sebastian.

The full results of the study were presented on May 2, 2006 during the American Roentgen Ray Society Annual Meeting in Vancouver, BC.