AUA: Five tests, treatments may be unnecessary

The AUA has released a list of specific tests or procedures that are commonly ordered but not always necessary in urology.

The list was created as part of the Choosing Wisely campaign, an initiative of the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Foundation. The list identifies five targeted, evidence-based recommendations that can support conversations between patients and physicians about what care is really necessary.

The AUA’s list identified the following five recommendations:

• A routine bone scan is unnecessary in men with low-risk prostate cancer.

• Do not prescribe testosterone to men with erectile dysfunction who have normal testosterone levels.

• Do not order creatinine or upper tract imaging in men with BPH.

• Do not treat an elevated PSA with antibiotics for patients not experiencing other symptoms.

• Do not perform ultrasound on boys with cryptorchidism.

"The AUA’s participation in the Choosing Wisely campaign affirms our belief in providing the finest care possible while adhering to the highest standards of medicine," said AUA Health Policy Chair David F. Penson, MD, MPH. “Through our well-regarded guidelines process and burgeoning measure development system, the AUA strives to instruct urologists and other health care providers on the proper way to provide urologic care. Choosing Wisely is another venue to share critical information with both health care professionals and patients to help initiate important conversations about treatment options."

All the lists released as part of the Choosing Wisely campaign were developed by individual specialty societies after months of careful consideration and review. Using the most current evidence about management and treatment options within their specialty, the societies said they believe the recommendations can make a significant impact on patient care, safety, and quality.