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Point-of-Care Imaging in Otolaryngology

  • REVIEW
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Abstract

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.

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Data Availability

No datasets were generated or analyzed during the current study.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, USA

    Jaclyn Preece

  2. Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA

    Sean A. Setzen

  3. Albany ENT & Allergy Services, Albany, NY, USA

    Gavin Setzen

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Contributions

JP wrote the main manuscript text including the “Abstract,” “Introduction,” “Ultrasound,” and “Magnetic Resonance Imaging” sections. JP also reviewed and collaborated on the “Computed Tomography” section. SS and GS wrote the main text within the “Computed Tomography” section. All authors reviewed the manuscript.

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Correspondence to Jaclyn Preece.

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Preece, J., Setzen, S.A. & Setzen, G. Point-of-Care Imaging in Otolaryngology. Curr Otorhinolaryngol Rep (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40136-024-00499-0

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