Errors in Radiology

ABOUT THIS BOOK

• The main reason for studying medical errors is to try to prevent them
• A radiology safety culture will only exist when the radiologist who made the error views such feedback positively as a learning experience
• Identification and reduction of diagnostic error provides a measure of the efficacy of the healthcare system, as it reduces mortality, morbidity and additional healthcare costs

Diagnostic errors are important in all branches of medicine because they are an indication of poor patient care. As the number of malpractice cases continues to grow, radiologists will become increasingly involved in litigation. Accordingly, every radiologist should understand the various sources of error in diagnostic radiology as well as the elements of negligence that form the basis of malpractice litigation.

The principal focus of this book is on the diagnostic errors that may be perpetrated when using diverse radiologic techniques in different disease settings. The full spectrum of potential errors is analyzed with the aid of high-quality illustrations and with clear guidance on their avoidance. In addition, medicolegal aspects inherent to radiology are carefully examined, with particular attention to radiation exposure due to imaging procedures and malpractice issues relating to administration of contrast media. The importance of good communication between radiologists and physicians and between radiologists and patients is also emphasized. Errors in Radiologywill prove immensely valuable to both novice and more experienced radiologists.

Content Level » Professional/practitioner
Keywords » Diagnostic radiology - Medical negligence - Medico-legal problems - Observer performance - Radiological error
Related subjects » Medicine - Radiology