When A Radiologist Misses The Mark

Diagnostic imaging plays a critical role in modern medicine. From broken bones to brain injuries, X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and ultrasounds help physicians identify problems and determine the best course of treatment. But what happens when those images are misread or overlooked?

In Baltimore and across Maryland, patients are sometimes harmed not by the illness or injury itself, but by the failure to properly diagnose it. When a radiologist misses the mark, the consequences can be serious. If you or someone you love has suffered due to a misread diagnostic image, have a Baltimore personal injury lawyer review your situation to determine if you have grounds for a malpractice claim.

How Diagnostic Imaging Errors Happen

Radiology is a specialized field that requires intense focus and deep expertise. Radiologists are responsible for interpreting medical images and providing reports to referring physicians. Despite their training, errors can (and do) occur. Common causes of radiology mistakes include:

• Human error. Fatigue, distraction, or time pressure can lead a radiologist to miss a small fracture, tumor, or abnormal growth.
• Technical limitations. Poor image quality or incorrect imaging technique can make interpretation difficult.
• Communication breakdowns. If a radiologist fails to clearly convey urgent findings, or if the referring doctor fails to act on the report, critical delays can result.
• Inadequate follow-up. Sometimes abnormalities are flagged, but no further testing or comparison imaging is ordered to confirm the diagnosis.

In busy medical centers across Baltimore, especially in emergency departments and high-volume clinics, these lapses are more common than many patients realize.

Real-World Consequences of Radiology Mistakes

A missed diagnosis can lead to unnecessary procedures or worsened conditions. Some of the most devastating consequences include missed cancers, undetected fractures, and misdiagnosed strokes. When imaging errors occur, patients can suffer physically, emotionally, and financially mounting medical bills and worsening health can turn a manageable condition into a crisis.

Determining who is legally responsible for a radiology error can be complex. In some cases, the radiologist is clearly at fault for failing to identify an abnormality that a reasonably skilled professional should have seen. In others, the referring physician may bear responsibility for not following up on the radiologist’s findings or for failing to order the correct type of imaging in the first place.

Hospitals and medical practices can also be liable if they fail to maintain proper equipment, overwork staff, or don’t follow established protocols for review and communication.

When a misread X-ray or MRI contributes to an injury, speak with an experienced Baltimore personal injury lawyer. A legal team can investigate your medical records, consult with experts, and determine whether negligence occurred. They can also help you pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Could evidence of a diagnostic error be part of your case? In the high-stakes world of medical diagnostics, every image matters. Share the details of your situation with the legal team at Iamele & Iamele, LLP. When a radiologist misses the mark, you deserve answers, and accountability. Contact us to book your confidential appointment.