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- Talk
- 23/09/2021
- UK
Impact of a Local Pathway on the Waiting Time for MRI in Patients Presenting to a District General Hospital with Suspected Cauda Equina Syndrome
Description
In this presentation led by Hossam Fraig, the focus is on the urgent treatment and diagnostic procedures for cauda equina syndrome, highlighting the critical need for immediate MRI scanning for patients suspected of having this condition. It contrasts the current state of MRI capabilities in the UK, which has the second lowest density of MRI systems in Europe, with countries like Germany. This discrepancy has led to significant waiting times and logistical challenges for patients.
To address this issue, the presentation elaborates on the implementation of a local protocol at Salisbury Hospital, designed to streamline the triaging and management of suspected cauda equina syndrome cases. This protocol, which includes dedicated MRI slots for urgent cases and ensures early consultant involvement, was put into effect in 2017. The results of a retrospective study conducted before and after the protocol's implementation in 2016 and 2018 are shared, revealing a notable increase in MRI referrals, a decrease in patient transfers to tertiary centers, and a reduction in scan waiting times.
Despite an increase in the number of scans conducted, the presentation notes a decrease in the percentage of scans confirming cauda equina syndrome, raising important questions about referral practices and the efficiency of current diagnostic pathways. The discussion highlights ongoing dialogues between clinical and radiological departments to optimize patient outcomes in light of increased MRI demands, pointing toward the evolving nature of medical protocols in response to changing clinical needs.