Questionnaire Survey on the Current Use of Brain Docks and Their Compliance with Guidelines in Japan

Brain dock is used for the early diagnosis of intracranial lesions, prevention of cerebrovascular disorders, and early detection of cognitive decline. However, its application varies per facility. This study evaluated the use of brain dock and compliance with its guidelines via a questionnaire survey on the members of the Japan Society of Ningen Dock and Preventive Medical Care and the Japan Brain Dock Society. The questionnaire included information on the respondents, facility characteristics, and brain dock implementation. The number of responses was 288 (response rate: 10.3%). Brain dock was predominantly used in combination with other diagnostic methods. In addition to magnetic resonance imaging, the other examinations performed included the assessment of stroke risk factors and dementia. Radiographic image interpretation was frequently performed by more than one person, often by a neurosurgeon or radiologist. Artificial intelligence was used less frequently. In several facilities, the results were explained to all patients in person and to those who requested the findings in other facilities. Meanwhile, 10% of centers sent the results to the patients. Neurosurgeons were the most common professionals who provided explanations to the patients, followed by outpatient physicians who used the interpretation result as a reference. Only 24% of professionals were aware of the brain dock certification program. By solving the related problems, brain docks can play a greater role in improving medical issues in Japan, where the aging society is projected to increase.