EVALUATING INCIDENTAL FINDINGS IN CERVICAL MRI SCANS: THE PREVALENCE AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE OF INCIDENTAL FINDINGS.

Objective: This study aims to examine the frequency, types, and clinical significance of incidental findings in cervical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and their implications for patient care. Materials and Methods: A total of 331 cervical MRI scans were reviewed retrospectively at Karabük University Research and Teaching Hospital between April 2022 and April 2023. Patients presenting with arm and neck pain or symptoms suggesting abnormalities of the cervical spine were included; those whose images were affected by artifacts were excluded. Incidental findings were recorded and categorized according to their type, location, and potential clinical significance. Results: Our cohort consisted of 221 female patients (69%) and 101 male patients (31%), amounting to a total of 322 patient records. Loss of cervical lordosis (71%) and cervical disc herniation (92%) were the most prevalent findings in the cervical spine. Additional findings included syringomyelia, cerebellar tonsillar herniation, and empty sella. After being diagnosed with thyroid cancer, one patient received appropriate care. The distribution of incidental findings by gender was not statistically significant. This study highlights the frequency and variety of incidental findings in cervical MRI scans, along with their possible clinical significance. The findings are consistent with earlier studies, highlighting the necessity of carefully analyzing these results to detect potentially fatal disorders. Conclusion: It is crucial not to overlook incidental abnormalities in cervical MRI scans for the early identification of clinically relevant disorders. Future research should concentrate on creating uniform protocols for handling incidental results to successfully balance clinical benefits and resource consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]