Point-of-Care Imaging in Otolaryngology

• Published in: Current otorhinolaryngology reports Vol. 12; no. 2; pp. 30 - 38
• Main Authors: Preece, Jaclyn, Setzen, Sean A., Setzen, Gavin
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York Springer US 01.06.2024
• Subjects: Medicine; Medicine & Public Health; Otorhinolaryngology; Review; Topical Collection on SPECIAL TOPICS: The Business of Medicine in Otolaryngology; Otolaryngology; Point-of-care imaging; Head and neck surgery; Computed tomography; Magnetic resonance imaging; Ultrasound
• ISSN: 2167-583X; 2167-583X
• DOI: 10.1007/s40136-024-00499-0

Purpose of Review Point-of-care imaging (POCI) has been defined as, “an imaging test carried out at or close to the point-of-care, at the time and place of care delivery.” The American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) strongly supports POCI to provide patients with timely and effective care. In this review, we demonstrate the value of POCI for all stakeholders including the patient, the otolaryngologist, and the healthcare system. Recent Findings In-office imaging has become more accessible to physician offices in recent years due to improved technology and reduced costs. Additionally, shifting imaging tests to physician offices is predicted to reduce healthcare spending in the United States. The history, cost-effectiveness, and usage options for POCI are important to consider. The primary modalities for POCI in otolaryngology include ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT) imaging, and to a lesser extent, magnetic resonance imaging. Summary POCI has been largely embraced by clinicians and patients due to the ability to control access, timing, quality, and cost of imaging to improve patient experience and outcomes. In an era of value-based healthcare reform and price transparency, transitioning to lower-cost centers that are more affordable and accessible continues to drive demand (and preference) for POCI services, most commonly for US and CT imaging in otolaryngology.