Unnecessary use of radiology studies in the diagnosis of inguinal hernias: a retrospective cohort study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The diagnosis of inguinal hernias is predominantly based on physical exam, although imaging may be used in select cases. The objective of this study was to determine the frequency of unnecessary imaging used in the diagnosis of inguinal hernias.

Methods

Patients who underwent elective inguinal hernia repair at a large academic health system in the U.S. from 2010 to 2017 were included. Within this cohort, we identified patients who received imaging 6 months prior to surgery. Through chart review of physical exam findings and imaging indications, we categorized patients into four imaging categories: unrelated, necessary, unnecessary, and borderline. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with receipt of unnecessary imaging

SUBMITTER: Liu N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7940456 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature