10 most overused medical tests, treatments

Alyssa Rege -

Recent findings suggest physicians and healthcare practitioners continue to overuse and overprescribe various medical tests and treatments, according to an Oct. 2 study published in JAMA.

For the study, researchers analyzed original research articles published in 2016 that sought to understand and curb medical overuse. The research team collected 2,252 papers, 1,224 of which directly addressed the overuse of medicine in instances where "potential harms outweigh potential benefits."

Researchers collectively whittled the number of significant papers to 10, according to Scientific Alert.

Here are the 10 most overused medical tests and treatments.

1. Transesophageal echocardiography
2. Computed tomography pulmonary angiography
3. Computed tomography in patients with respiratory symptoms
4. Carotid artery ultrasonography and stenting
5. Aggressive management of prostate cancer
6. Supplemental oxygen for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
7. Surgery for meniscal cartilage tears
8. Nutritional support in medical inpatients
9. Use of antibiotics
10. Use of cardiac imaging

To view the JAMA study, click here.

 

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