Magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine: direct access for general practitioners.
Year: 1997
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: At the Cardiff Royal Infirmary we have offered general practitioners (GPs) direct access for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lumbar spine for sciatica or suspected spinal claudication since January 1993. We compared referrals for MRI from GPs and hospital outpatient doctors, and assessed GP patient management following the scan report. No difference in the diagnostic rates for disc herniation and spinal stenosis were found. GP direct access shortens investigation time, potentially reduces waiting lists, and allows GPs to make more informed management decisions.
Source: Europe PMC (PubMed Central)
Authors: S J Chawda, R Watura, D C Lloyd
Institution: Cardiff Royal Infirmary
Language: English
Subfield: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W1490094967