Clinical Consensus Statement: Appropriate Use of Computed Tomography for Paranasal Sinus Disease

Program Description: The miniseminar will consist of a lively panel discussion on the newly developed AAO-HNS clinical consensus statement (CS) on the appropriate use of computed tomography (CT) for paranasal sinus disease. There is increasing scrutiny by government, health policy makers, and third-party payers, regarding issues of radiation safety and appropriate utilization with CT imaging. Unlike clinical practice guidelines that could encompass other disciplines, CSs produced by the AAO-HNS are focused on the specialty of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery. Because clinical evidence is lacking, the terms “evidence-based,” and “guideline” should not be used in the context of CSs. Nonetheless, the development panel has conducted a systematic review to ensure that the best available evidence is identified to support decisions, even if this evidence is limited to case series or previously published consensus documents.

Educational Objectives: 1) Learn about the systematic review that was conducted to identify the best available evidence to support decisions on the appropriate use computed tomography (CT) for paranasal sinus disease. 2) Understand when it is most appropriate to use CT for paranasal sinus disease.