This use case gives an example of how a Performed Imaging Agent Administration SR object could be used for capturing summary values of contrast into a radiology reporting system. In this case, the radiology reporting system would be a Contrast Usage Consumer (Figure LLLL.2-2).

The most straightforward and ubiquitous need for the contrast administration record is in the radiologist reporting workflow. Inclusion of delivered contrast data into templates or sections of the report is mandated in some regions of the world as evidence for billing reconciliation. More generally, the radiologist can include this data for completeness of study documentation. Ostensibly, contrast data included in reports may be used to construct a longitudinal record of contrast exposure for a patient undergoing multiple imaging studies.

Data of primary importance in this workflow are the summary values of contrast administered to the patient (total volume of contrast, saline, flow rate and concentration/type of contrast used). Often, information describing the vascular access device used (e.g., catheter gauge) is clinically relevant and/or mandated.

The guidance from ACR [ACR Communication] about the procedures and materials description in the report body states, “The report should include a description of the studies and/or procedures performed and any contrast media and/or radiopharmaceuticals (including specific administered activities, concentration, volume, and route of administration when applicable), medications, catheters, or devices used, if not recorded elsewhere”.