How second opinions from subspecialty radiologists alter cancer care

Abdominal imaging studies submitted to cancer care centers from outside organizations are often suboptimal for oncologic care, frequently resulting in treatment changes. 

A new study published in Clinical Imaging analyzed more than 900 outside imaging exams that were submitted to an oncology institution and compared the original radiology reports to that of the second opinion reads of subspecialty abdominal radiologists. The experts found that the second opinion interpretations noted wide variability in diagnostic image quality and resulted in a significant amount of treatment changes. 

“Before further consultation or treatment, cancer care providers and patients request expert radiologic opinions from tertiary oncology centers. The patients undergo consultation at specialized institutions to obtain expert opinions about their imaging findings, affecting their treatment plans,” corresponding author Mayur Virarkar, of the division of abdominal and general body imaging at the University of Florida College of Medicine, and co-authors wrote. “Secondary imaging interpretation can avoid repeat imaging and its associated technical costs.” 

For the study, the researchers analyzed 915 outside CT and MR abdominal imaging exams that had been submitted to their institutions. They compared the quality and accuracy of the initial radiology reports, technical quality of imaging and exam appropriateness to the secondary interpretations completed by subspecialty radiologists. Importantly, the researchers took note of the resultant effects each of these observations had on patients’ clinical treatment.