Choosing Wisely:

In the evaluation of simple syncope and a normal neurologic examination don’t obtain brain imaging studies (CT or MRI).

Search Recommendations

Rationale and Comments: In patients with witnessed syncope, but with no suggestion of seizure and no report of other neurologic symptoms or signs, the likelihood of a central nervous system cause of the event is extremely low and patient outcomes are not improved with brain imaging studies.
Sponsoring Organizations:
  • American College of Physicians
    • Sources:
  • American College of Radiology guidelines
  • National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence guidelines
    		•
    Disciplines:
  • Neurologic
    		•
    References: • ACR-ASNR Practice guideline for the performance of computed tomography (CT). 2010. http://www.asnr.org/sites/default/files/guidelines/CT_Brain.pdf.
    • National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. Transient loss of consciousness in adults and young people. August 2010. http://guidance.nice.org.uk/CG109.
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