Distributing medical images with internet technologies: a DICOM web server and a DICOM java viewer | JoVE Visualize

Distributing medical images with internet technologies: a DICOM web server and a DICOM java viewer

¹Imaging Laboratory, UDIAT Centre Diagnòstic, Corporació Sanitària parc Taulí, Parc Taulí s/n, 08208 Sabadell, Spain. jFernandezB@cspt.es

Radiographics : a Review Publication of the Radiological Society of North America, Inc|March 15, 2000

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This study introduces a web-based system for digital radiology image distribution in filmless hospitals. It simplifies access to medical images, improving interdepartmental communication and workflow efficiency.

Area of Science:

Radiology
Medical Informatics
Web Technologies

Background:

The transition to filmless radiology necessitates efficient digital image distribution.
Traditional Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) can be complex and difficult to integrate.

Purpose of the Study:

To develop and evaluate a novel approach for distributing radiologic images digitally within a hospital environment.
To leverage World Wide Web technologies for improved accessibility and usability of medical imaging archives.

Main Methods:

Implementation of a web server for querying and retrieving images from a Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) archive.
Utilization of a Java applet (DICOM Java Viewer) for in-browser image viewing.
Integration with existing hospital IT systems using web technologies.

Main Results:

The system provides easy installation, platform independence, and efficient image manipulation.
It offers a user-friendly interface, accessible both internally and externally (with security).
The system demonstrates effective performance, particularly with magnetic resonance and computed tomographic images.

Conclusions:

Web technologies offer a simpler, more flexible alternative to traditional PACS for filmless radiology.
The developed system enhances interdepartmental communication and workflow in a digital hospital setting.
This approach facilitates efficient access to medical images, supporting modern radiology practices.