Evaluation of Guideline Adherence and Subsequent Follow-Up Outcomes for Incidental Thyroid Nodules Detected in Hybrid Academic-Community Practice

Objective Incidental thyroid nodules (ITNs) are common, and variability regarding follow-up and recommendation practices exist. The study purpose was to determine adherence to the American College of Radiology (ACR) ITN criteria and analyze recommendation outcomes. Methods ITNs listed in the impression section on computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography studies over a 6-month period were included. Report recommendations were compared with ACR white paper criteria for adherence (concordant recommendation) or nonadherence (discordant recommendation). Reader characteristics, further ITN workup, and pathology were recorded. A P value less than 0.05 was used for significance. Results Three hundred fifty patients (mean age, 64.6 years) were included with a median ITN size of 18-mm. Most nodules (289/350) were reported on computed tomography and were identified for follow-up due to size (235/350). Only 39 of 350 reports (11.1%) did not follow ACR recommendations. Patient age was significantly related to recommendation adherence (P
Source: Journal of Computer Assisted Tomography - Category: Radiology Tags: Neuroimaging: Head and Neck Source Type: research