An Overview of Strategies Targeting Inappropriate Advanced Diagnostic Imaging in the Setting of Acute Uncomplicated Low Back Pain

Purpose of ReviewThe aims of this article are to review the driving forces for increased utilization of imaging within the US and to review the strategies currently being implemented to curtail the use of inappropriate advanced diagnostic imaging (ADI) in the setting of acute uncomplicated low back pain.Recent FindingsStrategies aimed at reducing inappropriate ADI in the setting of uncomplicated low back pain, including guideline dissemination, clinical decision support (CDS), audit and feedback, prior authorization, and prior notification.SummaryIncreasing utilization of inappropriate ADI is a multifactorial problem, and the solution is complex. Like many problems in medicine, it is unlikely that we will be able to identify a single intervention as a solution. Instead, a concerted effort grounded in physician education, CDS, and audit and feedback may be our best tool against inappropriate ADI in the setting of acute uncomplicated low back pain.