An audit of knee radiographs performed for general practitioners

The Royal College of Radiologists (RCR) has published guidelines concerning indications for imaging investigations. These include plain radiography of the knee, the indications for which are locking or signs of restricted movement. This audit consisted of 1153 knee radiographs in a 9 month period, results of a questionnaire sent to general practitioners (GPs), analysis of radiological reports and returned questionnaires (55% of cases), and subsequent comments from the GPs on receiving these results. Only 50% of cases fall within RCR guidelines. 90% of radiographs were normal or showed degenerative change. In 42% of cases, knee radiographs were requested to confirm previously expected degenerative change, and in 30% patient pressure was a significant factor. Most knee radiographs (87%) result in no significant change in management apart from continuation of symptomatic measures. Application of current guidelines, however, would miss some important diagnoses manifest clinically by persistent pain or effusion, for example loose body or Brodie's abscess. In cases of locking, where a radiograph may miss significant soft tissue abnormality, there was concern that reassurance was often gained by a normal examination. This audit shows that many knee radiographs are unnecessary. The guidelines appear appropriate with the proviso that persistent pain and effusion should be included as indications for investigation. Many GPs report medico-legal considerations as important reasons for unnecessary referrals, although the application of guidelines should be protection against this. The referral rate for knee radiographs before and after the communication of these results has not altered.