Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System on the Basis of Cost and Effectiveness

Background: We aim to evaluate thyroid imaging reporting and data system (TIRADS) on the basis of cost and effectiveness through the numbers of fine‑needle aspiration biopsies (FNABs) and sonographic examinations in a tertiary health‑care institution. Methods: The 50‑day intervals before and after the start of TIRADS use (October 10, 2022) were evaluated to carry out this assessment. The reason for choosing 50‑day periods was because it covers the initial phase when the study is most optimally performed in our hospital. The number of thyroid ultrasound (US) and FNAB procedures carried out in our facility during that time was tallied. Exclusion standards were not applied. Results: One thousand nine hundred eighty‑two people made up the study population. Fifty days before the October 10, 2022, there were 975 instances (49.2%), and 50 days after that, there were 1007 cases (50.8%). Out of 1982 cases, it was discovered that 190 (9.6%) underwent a biopsy, and 1792 (90.4%) underwent a US examination. It was found that the first period’s rate of biopsy examination was significantly higher than the second period’s rates of 11.1% and 8.1%, respectively. The rate of biopsy examination in males during the first period was found to be substantially higher than the second period. Individuals between the ages of 35 and 50 years had a rate of biopsy examination that was considerably higher in the first period than the second period. Conclusion: The TIRADS Risk Scale has the capacity to reduce unnecessary biopsies, hence mitigating potential psychological distress, burden, and financial expenses for the patient. © 2024 Journal of Medical Ultrasound.