This report is a good example of why a dedicated “Comparison” section is often unhelpful. The dictating radiologist states the comparison exam date three times. (Although never states what kind of exam is being compared.) Stating the comparison date once, in-line with the specific finding being compared is the easiest for the reader.

–“postsurgical change related to the prior median sternotomy.”  A prior median sternotomy is postsurgical change. There is no need to say “postsurgical change”. The sentence is also ambiguous. Is the postsurgical change related to the prior sternotomy, or is the enlarged mediastinum related to the prior sternotomy?

-“…improved compared to the 19 June 2014 exam.” – can be more concisely stated “…improved since 6/19/14.”

–“Multiple bilateral healed rib fractures are demonstrated.”