[How could the spine MR investigations without correct indications be reduced?]

Abstract

Introduction: Spinal pain and radiculopathies are often caused by degenerative changes, which are common indications for spinal MR imaging. The detection of disc degeneration, disc protrusion/herniation, spinal canal stenosis and small joint arthrosis, as well as pathological processes affecting the vertebrae and spinal space may require MR examination. Objective: Certain conditions clearly justify the imaging of the spine by MR, for which it is recommended to refer patients based on specific criteria systems. Method: In our hospital, 2105 such examinations were performed in 2023, which were evaluated individually by reviewing the referral criteria and the results. Results: In our hospital, referrals for spinal MR examinations were given by specialists in various fields. In 87% of cases, no neurological cause was proven, and the imaging studies did not show any clinically relevant abnormalities requiring surgical intervention. As a result, our waiting list stretched for several months due to the many “unnecessary” examinations, and in many cases the “14-day rule” for cancer patients was also violated. Discussion, conclusion: Physicians should be encouraged to follow the rules laid down by the profession, by applying these, waiting lists and the costs of care can be reduced, and it would be easier to ensure timely care for truly urgent patients. Orv Hetil. 2025; 166(18): 710–716.