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Each month we provide you with
a feature article. This article is authored by one of our
clinicians. Please direct all comments/questions to
info@cdaradiology.com.
Digital Radiology - Feature
0208
Radiology Associates of North Idaho, in conjunction with Kootenai
Health, utilize the most up-to-date technology for image acquisition
and storage. This is accomplished with digital radiology and a PACS
(Picture Archiving and Communication System). The PACS is a
centralized, secure, electronic image and data archiving system to
handle and store patient imaging studies including CT, MRI, Nuclear
Medicine, Ultrasound, Plain Film, and Mammograms.
 There are many advantages of digital radiology. Digital image
acquisition is faster which is less time-consuming for patients and
the technologists. It produces better quality images that have a
more functional dynamic range compared to past film screen systems
and therefore accept a much wider range of exposures. This dynamic
range reduces the amount of repeat examinations due to varying
technical factors. Overall, this reduces patients’ exposure to
x-rays. The digital images are immediately available to
technologists and radiologists for review and interpretation;
thereby, providing for more timely patient care.
Additionally, digital radiology allows for electronic storage of the
images. The images are readily available whenever and wherever they
are needed, allowing radiologists and referring physicians to view
the images simultaneously from their own computers and confer about
the patient’s exam. One of the best features about digital radiology
and PACS is that it integrates the images, the radiologist’s report,
and the patient’s electronic health record into one easily
accessible location.
The advantages for the patient of this system extend beyond Kootenai
Health. When a patient is cared for outside of the region,
electronic copies of the exams can be stored on a CD (computer disc)
and sent to the requesting facilities, rather than having to mail
heavy film copies.
Author
Nicole Burbank, MD
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