"Error Bars" in Medical Imaging: Stealth and Treacherous

Given the critical role that diagnostic radiology has in patient care, it is important for providers and patients to understand the level of certainty associated with imaging. Over-reliance on imaging and failure to appreciate its limitations can lead to unforeseen consequences. Further, there are uncertainties and inconsistencies in the manner in which imaging-based information is considered, communicated, and applied. There are opportunities to alter practice to maximize comprehension of radiologic reports and thus optimize the manner in which imaging-based information is applied clinically.