Learning objectives
To describe the concepts of “Error”, “Discrepancy”, “Complication” and their differences.
To review 12 radiological error types and their possible consequences with case examples.
To discuss types of biases leading to radiological errors.
Background
Radiological imaging is an essential part of patient management. Despite significant technological developments, radiologists still suffer from “errors” and “discrepancies”.
The term “error” is used, if there is no suspicion for what is “correct” and impossible to argue against while the term “discrepancy” stands for justifiable opinion differences in between colleagues.
Errors and discrepancies may cause direct or indirect, permanent or temporary harmful effects on patients due to false, missed or delayed diagnosis. However, radiological errors or discrepancies may not always alter patient management since...
Findings and procedure details
1. Definitions and differences of “error”, “discrepancy” and “complication”.
Diagnostic error is the condition that could inflict harm on patient, with no acceptable cause and no scientific data for defense, approved by all experts in this field (Figure-1).
The discrepancy means reasonable differences of opinions between radiologists about finding or diagnosis. It differs from error because discrepancies can be justified based on a range of scientific data, such as similar clinical, laboratory, or radiological patterns (Figure-2).
Complications are the conditions that occur during or after...
Conclusion
Errors, discrepancies and confounding biases are inseperable parts of daily routine for radiologists, and can cause various unexpected clinical consequences. In this study, we explained certain types of errors and biases with case-based examples. By doing so, we aimed to increase awareness about radiological diagnostic errors and related biases. Being familiar with errors and underlying biases is essential for radiologists to cope with them, to avoid false interpretations and try to develop countermeasures.
Personal information and conflict of interest
Ö.Önder-Ankara/TR-nothing to disclose//A.Azizova-Ankara/TR-nothing to disclose//Y.Yaraşir-Ankara/TR-nothing to disclose//G.Durhan-Ankara/TR-nothing to disclose//M.R.Onur-Ankara-ANKARA/TR-nothing to disclose//O.M.Ariyürek-Ankara/TR-nothing to disclose.
References
References are shown in Figure-28.