Authors:
L. Ramsay, J. Bernard, D. Johnson; London/UK
DOI:
10.1594/essr2016/P-0022
Conclusion
The potential for misinterpretation of this postoperative imaging phenomena is high. This may lead to unnecessary repeat surgery or at the very least,
misplaced concern regarding procedure success.
Particularly in institutions where MRI spines are reported by MSK and neuroradiologists,
and operations are performed by both orthopaedic and neurosurgeons,
the potential for miscommunication is clear.
All surgeons who use the product should be aware of the potential for postoperative imaging confusion.
They should clearly document when the product has been used both in the patient’s operative notes and in imaging request forms.
Any radiologist who reports post operative MRI spines should be aware of this potential pitfall,
and word their reports accordingly.
Ultimately,
as in all areas of medicine,
there is no substitute for ongoing learning and effective interdepartmental communication. By raising awareness in the radiological literature of this potential for misinterpretation,
we aim to promote patient safety within the field of spinal surgery.