Radiology helps to define the potential of modern medicine. X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds and other imaging studies can help physicians identify illnesses and injuries that may not otherwise be apparent.
Unfortunately, when mistakes occur during the imaging or interpretation process, patients may experience delayed treatment, unnecessary procedures or worsening medical conditions. Under various circumstances, radiology errors that lead to patient harm may be legally actionable.
Potentially consequential, common radiology error types
One potentially serious error is failing to identify an abnormality that should reasonably have been detected. A radiologist might overlook a suspicious mass, fracture, internal bleeding, blood clot or another significant finding. If a patient’s treating physician consequently believes the imaging is normal, an important opportunity for early treatment may be lost.
Misinterpretation can cause problems as well. An abnormality might be incorrectly classified as harmless, or a normal structure could be mistaken for evidence of disease. The latter situation may expose a patient to unnecessary testing, invasive biopsies, medication or other treatment.
Communication failures can also lead to consequential harm. Identifying a dangerous condition is not enough if the finding never reaches the physician responsible for a patient’s care. Particularly urgent results may require prompt communication rather than simply placing information in a routine report.
Technical problems can also affect patient safety. Poor positioning, incorrect imaging protocols or inadequate image quality may prevent clinicians from obtaining the information they need. Depending on the circumstances, clinicians should order additional imaging rather than rely on an inadequate study.
Not every missed diagnosis or unfavorable medical outcome constitutes malpractice. However, affected patients can place themselves in the strongest possible position to make informed decisions by seeking legal guidance and having a professional evaluate the nuances of their case.