Rational Uses of Hepatic Imaging Modalities

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Abstract
Hepatic imaging studies have been a tremendous benefit in the care of patients with liver diseases. However, uncertainty regarding the rational use of these studies, as with other diagnostic studies, generally promotes overuse. Some principles emerge from the information reviewed here. Generally, duplicative studies with similar test characteristics add little to the diagnostic process, and oftentimes confuse it. Costs are difficult to calculate and usually do not enter into the selection process. The result of each test must be interpreted in light of the clinical process that prompted its use, and when it will not change the diagnostic or therapeutic approach regardless of the result, the test is probably not indicated. Finally, rational use of the studies depends on an understanding of the information that they can and cannot provide.

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