Value-based management of incidental findings

Abstract

Radiological incidental findings (IFs) occur in research and diagnostic imaging. They are findings whose discovery is not intended. Due to a strong increase in high-tech imaging modalities the prevalence of IFs has risen. IFs regularly evoke discussions about accompanying ethical challenges. General principles to be considered in the management of IFs are responsibility for the well-being of the patient/study participant and of the society. In order to avoid overdiagnosis and overtherapy and generate a high value for patients, radiologists as well as clinicians need to know how to manage IFs. Over the last years, important guidelines (“white papers”) for the handling of IFs have been published by different national and international imaging societies. Experiences from population-based research and measurement of value markers might trigger the further development and adaption of value-based guidelines.