Original Title: Indicaciones de uso apropiado de resonancia magnética

Authors' objectives: To draw up recommendations for using MRI based on scientific evidence, classifying these into diagnostic categories in accordance with the greater or lesser degreeof appropriate use and their later diffusion to the relevant groups.

Authors' recommendations: When a diagnostic method is being considered for use, one has to assess the worth of such technology which could suppose a change in patient handling, and in what circumstances marginal benefits over other acceptable treatment technologies would be produced. Technology is appropriately used when it is scientific, safe and technically valid, economically viable, produces positive results and is acceptable not only to those on whom the techniques is to be applied, but also for those using the technique. MRI is a rist choice diagnostic technique in processes affecting the central nervous system: brain stem, cerbellopontine angle, brain skull or foramen magnum. It is useful in establishing diagnoses, surgery planning, treatment and monitoring of injuries which affect the spinal cord and the vertebral column. It is capable of visualising articular and ligamentous structures in the muscular-skeletal system. It may become an adequate alternative to the arthroscopy. RMI has a limited role in the diagnosis of abdominal and pelvic pathology as well as in thoracic exploration. The application of MRI implies the non-use of other image exploration techniques which would lead to the duplication of diagnoses and an excessive use of existing resources.

Authors' methods: - Bibliographical search of Medline, INAHTA, ECRI, Cochrane Library (1985-1996) databases. Study of the Clinical Practice Guidelines drawn up by other assessment agencies. - Exhausted analysis of the selected bibliography. - Drawing up of a table summarising scientific evidence. - Proposed recommendations for the use of MRI as classified: Cathegory A: In situations where MRI is a first choice technique. Cathegory B: Where MRI is considered a complementary technique. Cathegory C: MRI test not indicated. - External review (peer revie) of proposed recommendations. - Dissemination of the recommendations for use among familiy and community medicine services, radiology, neurology, neurosurgery, interns and orthopedics-traumatology.

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 1997

URL for published report: hhttps://www.euskadi.eus/contenidos/informacion/1997_osteba_publicacion/es_def/adjuntos/1997/d_97_01_resonancia_magnetica.pdf

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Spain

Organisation Name: Basque Office for Health Technology Assessment

Contact Address: C/ Donostia – San Sebastián, 1 (Edificio Lakua II, 4ª planta) 01010 Vitoria - Gasteiz

Contact Name: Lorea Galnares-Cordero

Contact Email: lgalnares@bioef.eus

Copyright: <p>Basque Office for Health Technology Assessment, Health Department Basque Government (OSTEBA)</p>