The process of evidence-based practice in radiology: an introduction

EBP can be used by radiologists to assess imaging modalities using the recognized “Ask, Search, Appraise, Apply, and Evaluate” steps. The technology assessment framework is also a useful tool to stratify an imaging modality according to its technical and diagnostic performance. It can also be used to assess its therapeutic and diagnostic impact as part of the “Evaluate” step of EBP. We have described how these two processes can be combined and used in a synergistic way. While its format may appear unorthodox compared to conventional research methodology (i.e., aims, methods, results, and conclusion), it is a practical and readily interpreted way of bridging the gap between EBP and primary research. An example of its application entitled “Combining ‘Evidence-Based Practice’ and ‘Technology Assessment’ Methods to Develop Departmental Imaging Protocols: Should FDG PET Be Routinely Used in the Preoperative Assessment of Patients With Colorectal Liver Metastases?” is published in this issue. Further details of this process and its potential impact on technology assessment, education, ethics, and radiology literature has been considered in a recent Radiology special series (11).