Physician Attitudes About Ultrasound-Guided Procedures

Abstract

Background

We aimed to study physician attitudes toward ultrasound-guided procedures and possible improvements. We hypothesized that the usage of ultrasound in procedures may be limited by a high barrier of entry and that most physicians would choose to adopt software that provides real-time image guidance if accessible.

Methods

A voluntary, cross-sectional survey of physicians at a single site was conducted using a five-point Likert scale. Data analysis included both descriptive and inferential statistical analyses and stratified by categorical descriptors, including variables of formal training, years of experience, and specialty of practice.

Results

One hundred sixteen physicians responded to the survey. The majority disagreed that there was a steep learning curve (57.5%) and that they need more time to identify structures under ultrasound (85.0%). Overall attitudes were mixed about the use of additional software to improve ease of use, but most (55.4%) had positive opinions toward the addition of real-time 3D reconstruction. Respondents without formal training were significantly more likely to agree that additional software would improve ease of ultrasound-guided procedures (p = 0.0389). Radiologists were significantly more likely to perceive a steeper learning curve and less likely to advocate for supplemental software compared to emergency medicine physicians, surgeons, or anesthesiologists.

Conclusions

Surveyed physicians demonstrated comfort with ultrasound-guided procedures and a mixed stance toward the use of additional software to assist with procedures. Those without formal training had significantly more positive attitudes toward the use of additional technology to augment ultrasound-guided procedures, suggesting a knowledge gap that may benefit from such technology.