The need for clinical trials in radiology.

Abstract

The dependence of radiologic practice on habit and anecdotal evidence puts in doubt the appropriateness of care. Influences in the United States health-care system require that the specialty of radiology emphasize a transition to more appropriate care to reduce waste, thus improving patient outcomes and reducing cost. Understanding what constitutes the most appropriate care depends on improving the evidence basis for imaging practice. This can be accomplished through the participation of radiologists in multicenter clinical trials that are more pertinent, valid, reliable, and generalizable than past radiologic research. Improved training of residents and fellows in critical thinking, the conduct of research, and better appreciation of the value of research to the specialty, as well as increasing infrastructural support for imaging clinical trials, are necessary prerequisites for improving the appropriateness of radiologic practice.