Interpretation of Clinical Imaging Examinations by Radiographers

Dr Keith Piper, Principal Lecturer, and Dr Nick Woznitza, Clinical Academic, in the School of Allied and Health Professions are both leading researchers in radiographer reporting of medical images.

Medical images (Xrays, MRI scans etc) are an essential part of diagnostic processes for people who have traumatic, acute and long term conditions. The diagnostic accuracy of radiographers, and other healthcare practitioners is crucial, in the provision of initial interpretations and/or definitive reports of plain imaging (skeletal and chest) and cross-sectional (magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] — lumbar/thoracic spine, knees and internal auditory meati [IAM]) investigations.

Eight studies included utilised a variety of methodological approaches including quasi-experimental and observational studies. Diagnostic accuracy was measured in a controlled environment and in a number of clinical settings in the UK. Dr Piper’s et al research demonstrated that radiographers can provide initial interpretations of radiographic examinations of the appendicular skeleton, in the trauma setting, to a higher level of accuracy than A/E practitioners.

The findings also provide evidence that selected radiographers with appropriate education and training can provide definitive reports on plain clinical examinations (A/E and non A/E referral sources) of the skeletal system and the chest — and MRI examinations of the knee, lumbar/thoracic spine and IAM to a level of performance comparable to the average non-specialist consultant radiologist.

Dr Woznitza’s work with Cancer Research UK for lung cancer screening includes a novel model of service training/delivery as well as demonstration of the key role that Reporting Radiographers have in both diagnosis and prevention.