In May 2022, the American College of Radiology (ACR) published several new and updated Appropriateness Criteria. The following new Criteria were published:

• Pelvic Floor Dysfunction in Females
• Osteomyelitis or Septic Arthritis – Child (Excluding Axial Skeleton)
• Newly Diagnosed Palpable Scrotal Abnormality
• Imaging of the Axilla
• Imaging of Facial Trauma Following Primary Survey
• Crohn Disease – Child

In addition, updates were made to existing Appropriateness Criteria on the following topics:

• Staging of Colorectal Cancer
• Staging and Surveillance of Testicular Cancer
• Sinonasal Disease
• Post-Treatment Follow-up and Active Surveillance of Clinically Localized Renal Cell Carcinoma
• Imaging After Shoulder Arthroplasty
• Dyspnea – Suspected Cardiac Origin (Ischemia Already Excluded)
• Chronic Chest Pain – High Probability of Coronary Artery Disease

The ACR updates its Appropriateness Criteria annually. The criteria are evidence-based and developed by expert panels within their relevant imaging subspecialties. When sufficient evidence is not available, recommendations are made based on expert consensus.

Updates to the ACR Appropriateness Criteria are reviewed and appraised as a part of the Carelon Specialty Health guideline research and development process. While the ACR provides important guidance and Carelon’s guidelines are largely aligned with their Appropriateness Criteria, it is not the only source for imaging recommendations. Carelon’s guideline development process includes a critical look at the literature supporting the ACR recommendations and those of other specialty societies as well. It is part of Carelon’s commitment to provide the most current, evidence-based guidance for our clients and the members they serve.