Incidental Findings

Incidental Findings

If you have had an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) after a car accident, it is likely for the purpose of looking for injuries like whiplash or back pain. Advanced radiology becomes an important part of understanding the extent of damage your body has sustained. Sometimes, the scan shows something unrelated, like a spot, nodule, node, lump or just something that is not where it should be. These are called incidental findings and can feel scary. Most are harmless, but you need to follow up to be sure. At Chambers Medical Group, one of the highest rated car accident medical care facilities in Kentucky, we see these surprises often and want to guide you through what to do next. Dr. Aaron Workman, a team member of Chambers Medical Group, discusses a simple plan to handle an unexpected MRI finding and get the care you need.

Understand Incidental Findings
Incidental findings are things your MRI picks up that are not tied to your accident, like a cyst or nodule. This week, it was a 13mm thyroid nodule that had to be addressed. They are common, showing up in many scans, and most do not cause problems. For example, a small kidney cyst might just need watching, while a brain spot could need more checks. Your MRI report will note these findings, and at Chambers Medical Group we will explain what has been found and go over the things you need to do next.

Talk to Your Doctor
Your primary care physician (PCP) is the best person to review your incidental MRI finding. They will look at your health history and decide if the finding needs action. After your MRI, contact your PCP right away to share the report, which you can get from the clinic. Sometimes it may be necessary to inform them you had an incidental finding on a test that needs to be looked at further, so they do not think it is something related to your motor vehicle accident (MVA). They might suggest monitoring the issue or running more tests, like a blood test or ultrasound. If you do not have a PCP, visit a local clinic or urgent care to start the process so you can get where you need to be.

Specialist Follow Up
If your PCP thinks the finding needs more attention, they may send you to a specialist. Bring your MRI report to these visits to help the specialist understand your case. They might order extra scans or tests to figure out if the findings are serious or just something to keep an eye on. Stay on top of these appointments to get clear answers.

When to Act
Most incidental findings are not urgent, but some need fast attention. If your clinic or PCP says the finding could be serious, like a large mass or something near your eyes or brain, then do not ignore the problem.

Finding something unexpected on your MRI on top of having injuries from an MVA can be an overload on mental stress. Ask your PCP questions like, “What does this finding mean?” or “What tests do I need next?” Keep a notebook to write down answers and store your MRI report in a folder for easy access.

An unexpected MRI finding after a car accident does not have to be overwhelming. By understanding the findings, talking to your PCP, following up with specialists, acting on urgent issues, and asking questions, you are taking charge of your health. Chambers Medical Group is here to help you focus on your recovery while guiding you to address these surprises. With this plan, you will handle incidental findings a little easier and stay on track to feeling your best.

— This article is written by Aaron Workman, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Kentucky.

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