01.04.01. Markers and annotation
Radiographic images are permanently labelled at the time of exposure to indicate patient orientation and uniquely identify the MRT performing the procedure
Marking images at the time of exposure
- Markers in radiography provide important information to those viewing the image:
- Patient identifiers
- Marker of right/left side
- Other aspects of orientation (supine, prone, etc.)
- Unique MRT identifier
- Markers placed at the time of exposure become a permanent part of the image, which is important for1:
- Reducing the chance of error (e.g., wrong side identified)2
- Reliable transmission to PACS
- Confidence in future consultation/ investigation
- Digital markers (annotation) is not a suitable substitute for image marking at time of exposure.3
Important considerations
- Markers may be important if the examination is to be used in a court case.3
- Images that include personal identification markers allow the possibility of MRT testimony and may lend credibility to his or her expertise1
- Digital right and left markers may not be admissible in legal proceedings, since they are not permanent markers1:
- Images may be marked anywhere
- Images may be flipped
- Image layout can be altered
Additional annotation
- Additional annotation can be used to provide further appropriate/relevant information.
- Annotation is not a replacement for markers
- This information can complement the markers present, identify issues, and aid in the interpretation of the image
- These additional notes may be added at the time of exposure or in post processing
References
-
Carter CE, Veale BL. Digital Radiography and PACS. 2nd ed. St. Louis, MO: Mosby Elsevier; 2013.
-
Herrmann TL, Fauber TL, Gill J, et al. Best practices in digital radiography. ASRT White Paper. Available from: http://www.asrt.org/docs/whitepapers/asrt12_bstpracdigradwhp_final.pdf. [Accessed 22 Feb 2013]
-
Long BW, Hall Rollins J, Smith BJ. Merrill’s Atlas of Radiographic Positioning & Procedures. 13th ed. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier. 2016.