Assessment of thyroid nodule risk stratification knowledge and utilization among Polish physicians: a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Endocrinology
• Diagnostic Ultrasound

Background:

• Ultrasonography is the primary method for thyroid nodule evaluation.
• Thyroid Imaging Reporting & Data System (TIRADS) standardizes assessment and reduces unnecessary biopsies.
• Risk stratification of thyroid nodules is crucial for clinical management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the knowledge and utilization of TIRADS among Polish physicians.
• To evaluate physicians' perceptions of TIRADS usefulness and feature knowledge.
• To identify factors influencing TIRADS adoption in clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• An internet-based questionnaire was distributed to members of the Polish Ultrasound Society.
• Data collected included physician experience with thyroid ultrasound and TIRADS knowledge/use.
• Statistical analysis was performed to identify correlations and significant differences.

Main Results:

• Only 33.4% of physicians used TIRADS, despite 43.4% awareness.
• EU-TIRADS was the most common classification (50.9%).
• TIRADS users were younger, more likely radiologists, and worked in academic hospitals, performing more thyroid ultrasounds.

Conclusions:

• TIRADS utilization in Poland is limited but awareness exists.
• Physicians using TIRADS demonstrate satisfactory knowledge of its purpose and features.
• Encouraging further training and adoption of TIRADS, particularly EU-TIRADS-PL, is advised.