Impact of the COVID 19 Pandemic on Radiological Imaging in Germany

Abstract

Purpose To analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 on the radiological imaging volume in Germany. Materials und Methods In this retrospective multicenter study, we analyzed CT and MRI examinations of 7 radiology institutes across Germany from January to December 2020. The imaging volume was compared to 2019 (Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test). Modality, patient service locations, and examined body parts were assessed in consideration of time periods of the pandemic. In addition, correlation with the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 cases and associated death was performed (Spearman-test). Results In total, in 2020, imaging volume declined by 4% (n=8314) compared with 2019 (p<0.05). The hard lockdown during the first pandemic wave (calendar week 12-16, March 22 - April 19) revealed the highest decrease with 29% (n=894, p<0.01), with the greatest decrease in CT (36% vs. MRI 26%), outpatients (38%, p<0.01), and imaging of the spine and extremities (51-72%, <0.05 - p<0.01). Examinations referred from the emergency department (-13%, p<0.05) and CT of the chest (-16%, p<0.05) were least affected. With the end of the first wave, gradual normalization of the imaging volume was observed and persisted until the end of the observation period. A reduction of imaging volume negatively correlated with the incidence of SARS-CoV-2-positive cases and associated deaths (r=0.28 and 0.49, p<0.05 and p<0.001). Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with a significant temporary decline in imaging volume. After the first lockdown period, a quick recovery was observed with radiologic imaging examinations steadily approaching prior-year figures. Key points: This study assesses the impact of dynamic pandemic activity on radiological imaging in a multicenter analysis in Germany. The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with a temporary decline in CT and MRI scans. Relaxation of restrictions was associated with fast normalization of imaging volumes to prior-year levels, which persisted until the end of the year. Significant catch-up effects were not observed. Citation Format Schmidbauer M, Grenacher L, Juchems MS etal. Impact of the COVID 19 Pandemic on Radiological Imaging in Germany. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2022; 194: 625-633.