The NIH Collaboratory Demonstration Project, Lumbar Imaging with Reporting of Epidemiology (LIRE), has completed enrollment as of September 30, 2016. LIRE is a pragmatic, cluster-randomized trial testing the effectiveness of inserting epidemiologic benchmarks into lumbar spine imaging reports for reducing subsequent tests and treatments for back pain. Given the rate of age-related, incidental imaging findings in individuals without back pain, many follow-up interventions for back pain based on imaging results are unnecessary. With back pain as one of the most common reasons for doctor visits, this inexpensive intervention has the potential for a large public health impact. The trial will continue to follow subjects for up to 2 years after enrollment using data from the electronic health record, but no new subjects will be enrolled.

Congratulations to the LIRE study team on this important milestone!