[Increase in the radiology imaging case volume and workload in a Hungarian university clinical center]

Introduction: The number and complexity of radiological examinations (number of images, data volume) have significantly increased in the recent decades. Objective: We aimed to determine how the number of medical imaging examinations and their complexity, as well as the trends of radiology workforce have changed in the last decade in our clinical center. Method: We analyzed the number and characteristics of medical imaging studies archived in the picture archiving and communication system between 2012 and 2023. This analysis was compared with data on the radiologist resources of the department. Results: Compared to the base year, by 2023, there was a substantial increase in annual imaging data volume (200.7%), number of images (506.3%), and number of examinations (69.4%). Image number increased the most in angiography (3161%) and the least in conventional X-ray examinations (34.4%). Annual archived study volume showed the highest increase in ultrasound (447.9%) and the lowest in X-ray examinations (9.2%). CT examinations exhibited the largest increase in image numbers (50–140%) among specific, common examination types. Annual examinations (66.6%) and image numbers per consultant (496.3%) significantly increased. The COVID–19 pandemic caused a temporary decline in the number of studies. Discussion: During the studied period, significant growth was observed in cross-sectional imaging, ultrasound examinations, and interventional angiography but not in x-ray. This growth partly stems from technological advances and changing data archival practice. The substantial growth in examination numbers and image data was not matched by available human resources. The decline in examination numbers during the COVID–19 pandemic highlights reduced access to elective and screening diagnostics. Conclusion: Consistent with international trends, the period under review witnessed significant increases in the complexity and number of imaging examinations, resulting in considerable workload growth. Comprehensive, systemic solutions are needed to prevent compromising patient safety. Orv Hetil. 2024; 165(48): 1894–1903.