Categorización y revisión de reevaluaciones en tomografía computada en una unidad de telerradiología de urgencia / Categorization and review of reevaluations in computed tomography in an emergency teleradiology unit

INTRODUCCIÓN La telerradiología se basa en el despliegue de radiólogos a distancia para evaluar estudios de dicha especialidad. Actualmente hay evidencia limitada sobre las tasas de error de evaluaciones en telerradiología. Este estudio corresponde a una revisión de las discrepancias entre los informes preliminares y finales de tomografía computada (TC) de una unidad de urgencia telerradiológica. OBJETIVO Determinar las discrepancias de las reevaluaciones (addendum) en los informes radiológicos de TC en una unidad de telerradiología de urgencia. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS La recolección de datos se planificó a modo de tabla de cotejo, en la cual se tabularon casos de reevaluaciones de urgencia desde el mes de enero hasta mayo del año 2021, en base a la categorización Agrawal. RESULTADOS De una total de 111.599, 836 informes presentaron addendum, que corresponden al 0,74% del total informado, La categoría Agrawal 0 agrupó la mayor cantidad de casos y los exámenes de TC especialidad de cuerpo se encuentran los segmentos con mayores requerimientos de reevaluación. Discusión: Los valores obtenidos permiten establecer una baja incidencia de reevaluaciones y de la gravedad de estas, apuntando a errores asociados a canales de comunicación, redacción y elaboración de informes con especial énfasis en estudios TC Tórax y Abdomen/Pelvis. CONCLUSIÓN El porcentaje de cumplimiento de un 99,26% de exactitud en los informes permite concluir la alta confiabilidad y la calidad del servicio de telerradiología de la empresa en cuestión durante el periodo evaluado y el empleo de medidas correctivas basadas en organización, gestión e instrumentalización tecnológica

Telementored ultrasonography: a narrative review

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Teleradiology consists of electronic transmission of radiological images from one location to another, including between countries, for interpretation and/or consultation. It is one of the most successful applications of telemedicine. Combining this methodology with ultrasound (called telesonography) can accelerate the process of making diagnoses. Despite this rationale, the quality of the evidence about the effectiveness and accuracy of teleradiology remains unknown. OBJECTIVE: To review the literature on the evidence that exists regarding use of telemedicine for ultrasound in situations of synchronous transmission. DESIGN AND SETTING: Narrative review conducted within the evidence-based health program at a federal university in São Paulo (SP), Brazil. METHODS: A search of the literature was carried out in April 2020, in the online databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Tripdatabase, CINAHL and LILACS, for original publications in all languages. The reference lists of the studies included and the main reviews on the subject were also evaluated. RESULTS: We included ten studies that assessed procedures performed by different healthcare professionals, always with a doctor experienced in ultrasound as a distant mentor. Among these, only one study assessed disease diagnoses in relation to real patients. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the promising position of telesonography within telemedicine, no studies with reasonable methodological quality have yet been conducted to demonstrate its effectiveness.

A review of teleradiology in Africa ­ Towards mobile teleradiology in Nigeria

eHealth is promoted as a means to strengthen health systems and facilitate universal health coverage. Sub-components (e.g. telehealth, telemedicine, mhealth) are seen as mitigators of healthcare provider shortages and poor rural and remote access. Teleradiology (including mobile teleradiology), widespread in developed nations, is uncommon in developing nations. Decision- and policy-makers require evidence to inform their decisions regarding implementation of mobile teleradiology in Nigeria and other subSaharan countries. To gather evidence, Scopus and PubMed were searched using defined search strings (September 2020). Duplicates were removed, and titles and abstracts reviewed using specified selection criteria. Full-text papers of selected resources were retrieved and reviewed against the criteria. Insight from included studies was charted for eight a priori categories of information: needs assessment, implementation, connectivity, evaluation, costing, image display, image capture and concordance. Fifty-seven articles were identified, duplicates removed and titles and abstracts of remaining articles reviewed against study criteria. Twenty-six papers remained. After review of full-texts, ten met the study criteria. These were summarised, and key insights for the eight categories were charted. Few papers have been published on teleradiology in sub-Saharan Africa. Teleradiology, including mobile teleradiology, is feasible in sub-Saharan Africa for routine X-ray support of patients and healthcare providers in rural and remote locations. Former technical issues (image quality, transmission speed, image compression) have been largely obviated through the high-speed, high-resolution digital imaging and network transmission capabilities of contemporary smartphones and mobile networks, where accessible. Comprehensive studies within the region are needed to guide the widespread introduction of mobile teleradiology.

Implementación de telerradiología en neurotrauma en áreas de difícil acceso-revisión sistemática / Implementation of teleradiology in neurotrauma in areas of difficult access - systematic review

ABSTRACT: Introduction: According to the world health organization, injuries represent more than 20% of health problems in the world. Head trauma and the absence of neurosurgery and radiology services in less populated areas make it difficult to assess and manage patients with brain injury. Objective: To describe the clinical findings and benefits derived from the implementation of teleradiology in neurotrauma in areas of difficult geographic access. Materials and methods: A systematic search was carried out in Pubmed, Scopus, Ebsco host, Sciencedirect, and Embase, with the thesauri "Teleradiology" and "Craniocerebral Trauma". Results: The decision to intervene in a patient with brain trauma and the period of time until surgery are essential for the clinical outcome. Those centers that use teleradiology require transfers to specialized hospitals, for which portable technological devices contribute to the response time of neurosurgery care. Conclusion: Teleradiology has a positive impact on patients with traumatic brain injury in geographical areas of difficult access, facilitating communication with specialists; providing timely care and optimizing transfers to high complexity centers.

RESUMEN: Introducción: Según la organización mundial de la saludlos traumatismos representan más del 20% de los pro-blemas en salud en el mundo. El trauma craneoencefálico y la ausencia de servicios de neurocirugía y radiología en zonas menos pobladas dificultan la valoración y manejo de pacientes con lesión cerebral. Objetivo: Describir los hallazgos clínicos y beneficios derivados de la implementación de la telerradiología en neurotrauma en áreas de difícil acceso geográfico. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó una búsqueda sistemática en Pubmed, Scopus, Ebsco host, Sciencedirect, y Embase, con los tesauros "Teleradiology" y "Craniocerebral Trauma". Resultados: La decisi-ón de intervenir a un paciente con traumatismo cerebral y el periodo de tiempo hasta la cirugía son fundamentales para el desenlace clínico. Aquellos centros que usan la telerradiología, precisan los traslados a los hospitales espe-cializados, por lo cual los dispositivos tecnológicos portátiles contribuyen en el tiempo de respuesta de la atención en neurocirugía. Conclusión: La telerradiología impacta positivamente en pacientes con trauma craneoencefálico en zonas geográficas de difícil acceso, facilitando la comunicación con especialistas; brindando atención oportuna y optimizando los traslados a centros de alta complejidad. (AU)

Impacto en la salud pública del sistema de telediagnóstico implementado en Paraguay / Public health impact of a remote diagnosis system implemented in regional and district hospitals in Paraguay / Impacto sobre a saúde pública do sistema de telediagnóstico implementado em hospitais regionais e distritais do Paraguai

RESUMEN Objetivo Determinar la viabilidad y puesta en marcha de un sistema de telediagnóstico para dar asistencia sanitaria a poblaciones remotas y dispersas del Paraguay. Métodos El estudio fue realizado en todos los hospitales regionales, generales y principales hospitales distritales de las 18 regiones sanitarias del Paraguay. En el sistema se registraron los datos clínicos y las imágenes tomográficas, ecográficas y trazados electrocardiográficos del paciente que precisaba de un diagnóstico por parte de un médico especialista. Esta información se transmitió a los especialistas en imagenología y en cardiología para su diagnóstico remoto y posterior envío del informe a los hospitales conectados al sistema. Se analizó el costo-beneficio e impacto de la herramienta de telediagnóstico desde la perspectiva del Sistema Nacional de Salud. Resultados Entre enero de 2014 y mayo de 2015 se realizaron 34 096 telediagnósticos distribuidos en 25 hospitales a través del Sistema de Telemedicina del Ministerio de Salud. El costo unitario promedio del diagnóstico remoto fue de USD 2,6 (dólares estadounidenses) para electrocardiograma (ECG), tomografía y ecografía, mientras que el costo unitario para el diagnóstico “cara a cara” fue de UDS 11,8 para ECG; USD 68,6 para tomografía y USD 21,5 para ecografía. La reducción del costo mediante el diagnóstico remoto fue de 4,5 veces para ECG; 26,4 veces para tomografía y de 8,3 veces para ecografía. En términos monetarios, la implementación del sistema de telediagnóstico, durante los 16 meses del estudio, significó un ahorro promedio de USD 2 420 037. Conclusión Paraguay cuenta con un sistema de telediagnóstico para electrocardiografía, tomografía y ecografía aplicando las tecnologías de la información y comunicación (TIC) de bajo costo, basadas en software libre y escalable a otros tipos de estudios diagnósticos a distancia; de interés para la salud pública. Con una aplicación práctica del telediagnóstico, se contribuyó al fortalecimiento de la red integrada de servicios y programas de salud, lo que permitió maximizar el tiempo del profesional y su productividad, mejorar la calidad, aumentar el acceso y la equidad, y disminuir los costos.

ABSTRACT Objective Determine the viability of a remote diagnosis system implemented to provide health care to remote and scattered populations in Paraguay. Methods The study was conducted in all regional and general hospitals in Paraguay, and in the main district hospitals in the country’s 18 health regions. Clinical data, tomographic images, sonography, and electrocardiograms (ECGs) of patients who needed a diagnosis by a specialized physician were entered into the system. This information was sent to specialists in diagnostic imaging and in cardiology for remote diagnosis and the report was then forwarded to the hospitals connected to the system. The cost-benefit and impact of the remote diagnosis tool was analyzed from the perspective of the National Health System. Results Between January 2014 and May 2015, a total of 34 096 remote diagnoses were made in 25 hospitals in the Ministry of Health’s telemedicine system. The average unit cost of remote diagnosis was US$2.6 per ECG, tomography, and sonography, while the unit cost of “face-to-face” diagnosis was US$11.8 per ECG, US$68.6 per tomography, and US$21.5 per sonography. As a result of remote diagnosis, unit costs were 4.5 times lower for ECGs; 26.4 times lower for tomography, and 8.3 times lower for sonography. In monetary terms, implementation of the remote diagnosis system during the 16 months of the study led to average savings of US$2 420 037. Conclusion Paraguay has a remote diagnosis system for electrocardiography, tomography, and sonography, using low-cost information and communications technologies (ICTs) based on free software that is scalable to other types of remote diagnostic studies of interest for public health. Implementation of remote diagnosis helped to strengthen the integrated network of health services and programs, enabling professionals to optimize their time and productivity, while improving quality, increasing access and equity, and reducing costs.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar a viabilidade e a implementação de um sistema de telediagnóstico destinado a oferecer assistência de saúde a populações remotas e dispersas do Paraguai. Métodos O estudo foi realizado em todos os hospitais regionais e gerais e nos principais hospitais distritais das 18 regiões sanitárias do Paraguai. Foram registrados no sistema os dados clínicos, as imagens tomográficas e ecográficas e os traçados eletrocardiográficos de pacientes que precisavam de um diagnóstico por parte de um médico especialista. Estas informações foram transmitidas a especialistas em diagnóstico por imagem e cardiologia para que fizessem o diagnóstico remoto e enviassem então os laudos aos hospitais conectados ao sistema. Analisou-se a relação custo-benefício e o impacto da ferramenta de telediagnóstico da perspectiva do Sistema Nacional de Saúde. Resultados Entre janeiro de 2014 e maio de 2015, foram realizados 34.096 telediagnósticos em 25 hospitais através do Sistema de Telemedicina do Ministério da Saúde. O custo unitário médio do diagnóstico remoto foi de US$ 2,6 (dólares americanos) para eletrocardiografia (ECG), tomografia e ecografia, enquanto que o custo unitário para o diagnóstico presencial foi de US$ 11,8 para ECG, US$ 68,6 para tomografia e US$ 21,5 para ecografia. A redução do custo pelo uso do diagnóstico remoto foi de 4,5 vezes para ECG, 26,4 vezes para tomografia e 8,3 vezes para ecografia. Em termos monetários, a implementação do sistema de telediagnóstico, ao longo dos 16 meses do estudo, representou uma economia média de US$ 2.420.037. Conclusão O Paraguai conta com um sistema de telediagnóstico para eletrocardiografia, tomografia e ecografia que utiliza tecnologias da informação e comunicação (TIC) de baixo custo, baseadas em software livre e ampliáveis a outros tipos de exames diagnósticos à distância que são de interesse para a saúde pública. A aplicação prática do telediagnóstico contribuiu para o fortalecimento da rede integrada de serviços e programas de saúde, o que permitiu maximizar o tempo dos profissionais e sua produtividade, melhorar a qualidade, aumentar o acesso e a equidade e reduzir os custos.

Efficient medical image access in diagnostic environments with limited resources

Abstract Introduction A medical application running outside the workstation environment has to deal with several constraints, such as reduced available memory and low network bandwidth. The aim of this paper is to present an approach to optimize the data flow for fast image transfer and visualization on mobile devices and remote stationary devices. Methods We use a combination of client- and server-side procedures to reduce the amount of information transferred by the application. Our approach was implemented on top of a commercial PACS and evaluated through user experiments with specialists in typical diagnosis tasks. The quality of the system outcome was measured in relation to the accumulated amount of network data transference and the amount of memory used in the host device. Besides, the system's quality of use (usability) was measured through participants’ feedback. Results Contrarily to previous approaches, ours keeps the application within the memory constraints, minimizing data transferring whenever possible, allowing the application to run on a variety of devices. Moreover, it does that without sacrificing the user experience. Experimental data point that over 90% of the users did not notice any delays or degraded image quality, and when they did, they did not impact on the clinical decisions. Conclusion The combined activities and orchestration of our methods allow the image viewer to run on resource-constrained environments, such as those with low network bandwidth or little available memory. These results demonstrate the ability to explore the use of mobile devices as a support tool in the medical workflow.

Formação de uma infraestrutura de informação para telerradiologia: um estudo de múltiplos casos baseado na teoria de projeto para complexidade dinâmica / Forming an information infrastructure for teleradiology: a multiple case study based on the design theory for dynamic complexity / La formación de una infraestructura de información de teleradiología: un estudio de casos múltiples sobre la base de la teoría del diseño de complejidad dinámica

Objetivo: Compreender, por meio de uma série de estudos de caso, os obstáculos que dificultam o surgimento de uma infraestrutura de informação (II) para distribuição de estudos de imagens de forma ampla e flexível, atenuando os limites locais e globais para a prática radiológica. Métodos: Aplicou-se a teoria de projeto para complexidade dinâmica em infraestrutura de informação para casos selecionados, a fim de interpretá-los de acordo com as regras de projeto da teoria. Resultados: Observou-se nos casos estudados arquiteturas com acoplamento forte entre seus componentes sociotécnicos e, consequentemente, baixa capacidade de adaptação. Conclusão: A reduzida capacidade de adaptação explica a dificuldade de formação de uma infraestrutura de informação para distribuição de estudos de imagens que possibilite conectar uma quantidade crescente de componentes heterogêneos com abrangência não limitada. Destaca-se a importância de projetar soluções com capacidade de variação suficiente para possibilitar a máxima adaptação sociotécnica.

Objective: To understand, through a series of case studies, the obstacles that hinder the emergence of an information infrastructure (II) for distribution of imaging studies in a broad and flexible way, attenuating the local and global limits for radiological practices. Methods: The design theory for dynamic complexity in II was applied to selected cases, in order to interpret them according to the design rules of the theory. Results: It was observed in the cases studied architectures with tight coupling among their sociotechnical components and consequently low adaptability. Conclusions: The low adaptability explains the difficulties for the formation of an information infrastructure to distribute imaging studies that allows the connection of an increasing number of heterogeneous components in an unbounded scope. We highlight the importance of designing solutions having enough variety capacity as to enable a maximum of sociotechnical adaptability.

Objetivo: Comprender a través de una serie de estudios de casos, obstáculos que dificultan la aparición de una infraestructura de información (II) para una amplia y flexible distribución de los estudios de imagen, lo que reduce los límites locales y globales para la práctica radiológica. Métodos: Se aplica la teoría de diseño para complejidad dinámica en la infraestructura de información para casos seleccionados con el fin de interpretarlos de acuerdo con las reglas de diseño de la teoría. Resultados: Se observó en los casos estudiados arquitecturas con acoplamiento fuerte entre sus componentes socio-técnicos y consiguiente, baja capacidad de adaptación. Conclusión: La capacidad reducida de adaptación explica la dificultad de la formación de una infraestructura de información a distribución de estudios de imagen que permite la conexión de un número creciente de componentes heterogéneos con cobertura no limitada. Se destaca la importancia de soluciones de diseño con capacidad de variación suficiente para permitir la máxima adecuación socio-técnica.

DicomFlow: infraestrutura assíncrona, assimétrica, descentralizada para distribuição de imagens médicas / DicomFlow: asynchronous, asymmetrical, decentralized infrastructure for distribution of medical images

Os avanços das tecnologias de informação e comunicação proporcionam as condições para formar uma infraestrutura para distribuição de imagens médicas em larga escala. Entretanto, mesmo considerando a grande base instalada PACS/DICOM, não se observa a formação de uma infraestrutura comum para troca de imagens médicas entre entidades de saúde. OBJETIVO: Propor o DicomFlow, uma infraestrutura assíncrona, assimétrica e descentralizada para distribuição de imagens médicas, construída sobre a base instalada. MÉTODO: Especificou-se um protocolo para troca de mensagens e transmissão de imagens médicas e construiu-se um modelo arquitetural em duas camadas. RESULTADO: Três experimentos foram realizados para avaliar preliminarmente a infraestrutura quanto a sua viabilidade técnica e operacional.CONCLUSÃO: O DicomFlow possibilita a troca de imagens entre profissionais e organizações de saúde quaisquer,desde que pertençam à base instalada, fomentando a formação de uma infraestrutura de informação para distribuição de imagens médicas.

Advances in information and communication technologies have provided the conditions for the formation ofan infrastructure for medical images distribution on a large scale. However, even considering the large PACS/DICO Minstalled base, it is not observed the formation of a common infrastructure for the exchange of medical images between health organizations. OBJECTIVE: To propose DicomFlow, an asynchronous, asymmetric, and decentralized infrastructure for distribution of medical images, built on the installed base. METHOD: A protocol for messaging and transmission of medical images was specified and an architectural model in two layers was built. RESULTS: Three experiments we recarried out to evaluate preliminarily the proposed infrastructure with respect to its technical and operational feasibility. CONCLUSION: DicomFlow enables the exchange of images between any health professionals and organizations, provided that they belong to the installed base, fostering the emergence of an information infrastructure for distribution of medical images.

Validity of iPad for Remote Diagnosis of Rib Fracture

PURPOSE: In elderly and patients with underlying diseases, mortality rate is increased when compared to rib fractures which occurred in other patients. Because there is a shortage of emergency physicians or real-time consultation with radiologists in many countries, it is necessary to receive a formal image reading remotely from an expert. We suggested the use of iPad in X-ray reading and compared the diagnostic validity of iPad, which was highly portable, with that of liquid crystal display (LCD) monitor. METHODS: Fifty four X-ray cases of rib fracture and 54 cases without rib fracture were randomized and reviewed by 10 emergency physicians. A total of 108 cases were divided 1st to 54th and 55th to 108th. Two sessions were separated with a four-week interval. If the reviewer interpreted the 1st to 54th with iPad, they did 55th to 108th with LCD monitor. Reviewers reported the presence of rib fracture, the number of fractured ribs, and diagnostic confidence of 5-scale. RESULTS: The interobserver agreement among reviewers in LCD and iPad was 0.551, 0.524 in Fleiss-kappa value. The intraobserver agreement between tools for each reviewer was 0.410-0.859 (Mean=0.628+/-0.150). Reviewers showed sensitivity over 0.810 regardless of the tool; 0.810- 0.966 (Mean=0.879+/- 0.054) in LCD, 0.828-1.000 (Mean=0.898+/-0.052) in iPad. The specificity was 0.520- 0.860 (Mean=0.750+/-0.117) in LCD and 0.560-0.880 (Mean=0.708+/-0.111) in iPad. Therefore, remote consultation of X-ray by iPad with a specialist was possible with minimized temporal and spatial limits in the emergency room. CONCLUSION: In our study, there was no statistical difference in the diagnosis of rib fracture by X-ray via iPad or LCD. Therefore, remote consultation of X-ray by iPad with a specialist in the emergency room was possible, with temporal and spatial limits by iPad.

Avaliação dos parâmetros de imagens de massas anexiais pélvicas em tele-ecografia / Evaluation of image parameters of pelvic adnexal masses in tele-echography

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os parâmetros ultrassonográficos relacionados às características morfológicas de massas anexiais pélvicas por meio da obtenção de imagens bidimensionais por um observador presencial, encaminhadas eletronicamente (via tele-ecografia) nos modos estático e dinâmico a observadores não presenciais (à distância) para análises comparativas inter e intraobservadores a fim da validação de uma segunda opinião. MÉTODOS: No período de março a agosto de 2010 foram selecionadas 50 pacientes que apresentavam visualização de massa anexial pélvica no exame ecográfico. Elas foram submetidas ao exame ultrassonográfico por vias abdominal e endovaginal. As imagens foram capturadas nos modos estático e dinâmico, encaminhadas eletronicamente para avaliação de dois examinadores não presenciais e avaliadas de acordo com parâmetros morfológicos ultrassonográficos previamente determinados. RESULTADOS: Os avaliadores não presenciais nas modalidades estática e dinâmica obtiveram concordância quase perfeita para todos os parâmetros morfológicos com valores de Kappa entre 0,6 e 0,8. Não houve diferença entre as modalidades empregadas, exceto para o parâmetro morfológico projeção papilar na modalidade estática, em que a concordância foi quase perfeita (0,8) enquanto na modalidade dinâmica foi substancial (0,6). CONCLUSÕES: Os parâmetros ultrassonográficos das características de massas anexiais pélvicas encaminhadas por tele-ecografia são passíveis de serem validadas para emissão de uma segunda opinião. Não houve diferenças significativas quanto à metodologia empregada na emissão das imagens tele-ecográficas (estática ou dinâmica) na caracterização da composição das massas anexiais pélvicas.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the sonographic parameters related to morphological characteristics of pelvic adnexal masses by obtaining two-dimensional images by an observer presence, forwarded electronically (via tele-ultrasound) in static and dynamic modes observers do not face (distance) for comparative analyzes inter intraobserver and to the validation of a second opinion. METHODS: From March to August 2010 were selected 50 patients with adnexal mass viewing of the pelvic ultrasound. They were subjected to ultrasound for abdominal and transvaginal routes. The images were captured in static and dynamic modes, electronically forwarded for evaluation of non-presence and two examiners evaluated according to morphological ultrasonographic parameters previously determined. RESULTS: The evaluators did not face in static and dynamic modes obtained almost perfect agreement for all morphological parameters with Kappa values ​​between 0.6 and 0.8. There was no difference between the methods employed, except for the morphological parameter papillary projection in the static mode , in which the agreement was almost perfect ( 0.8 ) while in dynamic mode was substantial (0.6). CONCLUSIONS: The sonographic parameters of the features of adnexal masses pelvic sent by tele-ultrasound are capable of being validated for issuing a second opinion. There were no significant differences in the methodology used in the issue of tele-ultrasound images (static or dynamic) to characterize the composition of pelvic adnexal masses.

Clinical usefulness of teleradiology in general dental practice

PURPOSE: This study was performed to investigate the clinical usefulness of teleradiology in general dental practice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two hundred and seventy five cases were submitted for inquiry to the case presentation board of the website of The Korean Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology for a 5 year periods. The diagnosis results of those cases were analyzed according to the disease classification, the correlation with the patient's chief complaint, the necessity of additional examinations or treatments, the image modalities, and the number of dentists inquiring. RESULTS: Differential diagnoses of normal anatomic structures were the most frequently submitted cases, covering 15.6% of all cases. Among 275 cases, 164 cases required no additional treatments or examinations. Panoramic radiographs were the most frequently submitted images, accounting for 248 inquiries. The 275 cases were submitted by 96 dentists. Fifty-two dentists wrote one inquiry, and 44 inquired 2 or more times. The average inquiry number of the latter group was 5.0 cases. CONCLUSION: A teleradiology system in general dental practice could be helpful in the differential diagnosis of common lesions and reduce unnecessary costs.

Digitalização de filmes radiográficos com costura de imagens / Digitalization of X-ray films with image stitching

OBJETIVO: Propor um método reprodutível, de fácil utilização e de baixo custo para a digitalização de filmes radiográficos de todos os tamanhos padrões, concentrando nossos esforços em filmes radiográficos de tórax. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: O objetivo de baixo custo ditou o uso de um escâner A4 com adaptador de transparência, bem como um software de costura de imagens otimizado, que tira proveito da geometria do escâner e área de captura constante, bem como o conhecimento das dimensões dos filmes radiográficos padrões. RESULTADOS: O resultado final do método proposto é uma imagem de alta resolução com bom contraste e sem artefatos de costura perceptíveis. CONCLUSÃO: O método de digitalização proposto usando um escâner A4 possibilita reprodutibilidade, excelente qualidade de imagem e alto grau de certeza na identificação de lesões.

OBJECTIVE: To propose a reproducible, user friendly and low cost method for digitization of radiographic films of all the standard sizes, focusing efforts on chest X-ray films. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The focus on low cost have dictated the use of an A4 scanner with transparency adapter, as well as an optimized image stitching software that takes advantage of the scanner geometry and constant capture area, besides the knowledge of the standard X-ray film sizes. RESULTS: The end result of the proposed method is a high resolution image with good contrast and no perceptible stitching artifacts. CONCLUSION: The proposed digitization method with an A4 scanner allows reproducibility, excellent image quality and high degree of certainty in the identification of lesions.

Arquivamento e comunicação de imagens radiológicas na formação médica online / Filing and communication of radiological images in online medical training

O estudo investiga as possibilidades de utilização dos recursos de arquivamento e comunicação de imagens nas salas de aula e à distância no processo de formação médica através da telemedicina. Discutem-se as possibilidades de usar programas de informática que reproduzem os recursos de diferentes meios de diagnóstico por imagem como ferramenta didática nas aulas de telemedicina, por meio do acesso a imagens radiológicas utilizando sistemas de informática para fins de emissão de laudos à distância na formação médica. Avaliou-se a apresentação de imagens digitais nas salas de aula dos cursos de saúde a partir da experiência de residentes em formação que atuam na modalidade online, por meio de questionários aplicados com especialistas e residentes que atuam no caso relatado no estudo. Os aspectos de formação docente dos médicos, especialmente para atuar em ambientes online, definição de metodologias de avaliação, interação entre os sujeitos envolvidos foram avaliados para considerar a possibilidade de usar a experiência em cursos de Medicina como um meio de educação à distância (EAD) utilizando Arquivamento e Comunicação de Imagens (PACS).

The study investigates the possibilities of using the resources of archival and image communication in the classroom and distance learning in the process of medical education through Telemedicine. A discussion was held on the possibilities of using computer programs that replicate the features of different types of diagnostic imaging as an educational tool in the Telemedicine classroom, through access to radiological images using computer systems for issuing distance reports in medical education. The study evaluated the presentation of digital images in classroom health courses based on the experience of residents-in-training that work in the online mode, through questionnaires completed by experts and residents working on the respective case. Teacher training for physicians (especially for working in online environments), development of evaluation methodologies, and interaction between the individuals involved in the process were assessed to consider the possibility of using the experience in medical courses as a modality of distance education using a picture archiving and communication system (PACS).

Visualizadores de imagens médicas gratuitos: é possível trabalhar apenas com eles? / Freeware medical image viewers: can we rely only on them?

OBJETIVO: Pesquisar visualizadores de imagens médicas gratuitos disponíveis na internet capazes de funcionar como cliente PACS (picture archiving and communication system) e avaliar suas principais funções e a viabilidade do uso em computadores pessoais. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Foi feita pesquisa, no Google e em sites especializados, por programas gratuitos disponíveis para o Windows. Foram encontrados cerca de 70, sendo 11 capazes de funcionar como cliente PACS, e selecionados seis destes para análise: ClearCanvas Workstation, KPACS, Onis, Synedra View Personal, Mito e Tudor DicomViewer. Com base nas necessidades dos autores, 16 funções foram avaliadas. RESULTADOS: Dos seis programas avaliados, dois possuem 10 das 16 funções avaliadas e um possui apenas duas. Três realizam MPR (reconstrução multiplanar), um realiza MIP (reconstrução por projeção de intensidade máxima), dois realizam VR (renderizações volumétricas), dois funcionam como servidor PACS, dois geram CDs, um realiza fusão de imagens, três permitem utilizar múltiplos monitores e apenas um não é compatível com Windows 7. CONCLUSÃO: Diversos programas gratuitos estão disponíveis e não existe nenhum completo. Cabe ao usuário analisar e selecionar o programa que melhor se enquadra nas suas necessidades, porém, os programas Onis, Synedra e ClearCanvas se destacam, cada um com suas peculiaridades. É totalmente viável o uso de programas gratuitos para o dia-a-dia do radiologista.

OBJECTIVE: To search in the internet for freeware medical image viewers capable of running as a PACS (picture archiving and communication system) client, and to evaluate their main functions as well as the feasibility of their use in personal computers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The Google search engine and specialized sites were utilized in the search for freeware softwares for Windows. The authors have found about 70 and among them 11 were able to run as PACS clients. Six were selected for analysis: ClearCanvas Workstation, KPACS, Onis, Synedra View Personal, Mito and Tudor DicomViewer. Sixteen functions selected according to the authors' needs were evaluated. RESULTS: Among the six applications, two presented 10 of the 16 functions, and one of them presented only two. Three perform MPR (multiplanar reconstruction), one performs MIP (maximum intensity projection), two perform VR (volume rendering), two can run as a PACS server, two can create CDs, one performs images fusion, three allow the use of multiple monitors and only one is not compatible with Windows 7. CONCLUSION: Although several freeware applications are available, no one of them is complete. It is up to the users to analyze and select the software that best suits their needs. However, Onis, Synedra and ClearCanvas stand out because of their own peculiarities. The use of freeware image viewers is entirely feasible in the radiologists' daily routine.

Aplicabilidad de la telemedicina con énfasis en la teleradiología: una aproximación bioética / Applicability of telemedicine with emphasis on teleradiology: a bioethical approach

La presente investigación se propuso conocer las implicaciones Bioéticas y educativas derivadas de la aplicación de la Telemedicina en la actualidad, con énfasis en la Radiología a distancia o Teleradiología, para establecer algunas reflexiones acerca de la viabilidad de su aplicación no sólo desde el punto de vista tecnológico sino Bioético. Se realizó una investigación documental. La información fue ordenada, organizada y presentada para su análisis e interpretación lo que permitió concluir que la Telemedicina y por ende la teleradiología, a través de un proceso educativo médico, puede solucionar problemas de índole clínico en zonas alejadas, estableciendo comunicación entre institucionesy profesionales de la salud, teniendo una adecuada plataforma tecnológica, siempre y cuando se mantenga la relación médico-paciente con los elementos de responsabilidad profesional que conlleva, respetando los principios bioéticos de: dignidad de la persona, autonomía, privacidad, beneficencia, justicia y equidad.

The following investigation has the purpose to acknowledge the bioethical and educational implications derived from the application of the telemedicine in our current days, with emphasis in distance radiology or tele-radiology, to establish furthermore some reflections about the possibility of its application, not only from the technological standing point but also from the bioethical point. To achieve the goal an approach through a documentary investigation was made. The information was organized and presented for its analysis and interpretation, allowed us to conclude that telemediycine and also tele-radiology, through a medical educational process may solve clinical type of problems in distant zones making contact between institutions and health professional, likewise having an adequate technological platform, as long as the doctor-patient relation is kept with the elements of professional responsibility which are inside it, respecting the bioethical principles of the person´s dignity, autonomy, privacy, beneficence, justice and equity.

Certificação digital de exames em telerradiologia: um alerta necessário / Digital certification in teleradiology: a necessary warning

A crescente popularização das atividades de telemedicina em todo o mundo tem exigido de médicos e demais profissionais da saúde novas abordagens em sua prática profissional. No que se refere à telerradiologia, observamos forte tendência à transformação de documentos clínicos - como resultados de exames, que até hoje existiam na forma de filmes impressos e laudos em papel - em documentos eletrônicos, disponibilizados em redes internas de clínicas e hospitais, ou pela internet. Esta tendência torna necessária a divulgação e o esclarecimento de conceitos como a certificação digital, a criptografia de dados na internet, a confiabilidade de sites, o documento eletrônico confiável e a assinatura digital. Os princípios básicos desses conceitos, embora por vezes complexos para os profissionais da saúde, podem ser compreendidos de forma efetiva sem que o leitor tenha de mergulhar de cabeça em labirintos como a matemática da criptografia de chaves assimétricas ou os protocolos de comunicação digital de dados. Neste artigo abordaremos de forma direta e com exemplos práticos os aspectos de segurança e confiabilidade de documentos clínicos eletrônicos baseados na internet, com o objetivo de que os usuários médicos possam interagir de forma informada, segura e bem fundamentada com serviços de telerradiologia.

The increasing worldwide popularization of telemedicine activities has demanded a new approach to the professional practice by physicians and other health professionals. As far as teleradiology is concerned, a remarkable trend has been observed toward the transformation of clinical documents - like radiological studies results, that so far existed as printed films and paper-based reports - into electronic documents available in internal networks of medical clinics and hospitals or through the internet. As a result of this trend, it is necessary to divulge and explain concepts such as digital certification, internet data encryption, sites' reliability, reliability of electronic documents, and digital signature. Even though the baseline principles of these concepts may seem complex for health professionals, they can be effectively understood with no need to wander through labyrinths like the mathematics of asymmetric keys cryptography, or digital data communication protocols. Security and reliability aspects related to internet-based electronic clinical documents are described in the present study, in a straight and practical way, aiming at an informed, safe and soundly grounded interaction between medical users and telemedicine services.

Ejecución de un sistema piloto de tele-radiología en Medellín, Colombia / Implementing a teleradiology pilot system in Medellín, Colombia

Objetivo: Aplicar un sistema piloto de tele-radiología en la ciudad de Medellín con software de acceso remoto que permita la comunicación e interpretación a distancia de imágenes biomédicas. Materiales y métodos: Se utilizaron imágenes de estudios de resonancia magnética y tomografía computadorizada almacenados en formato DICOM. Los datos se transmitieron en una red punto a punto mediante líneas de red digital de servicios integrados (RDSI) entre dos centros de diagnóstico radiológico. El sistema se llevó a cabo bajo arquitectura PC basada en Intel x86 con sistema operativo Windows® 2000. Resultados: Para la lectura y visualización local de imágenes almacenadas en formato DICOM, se desarrolló una aplicación en Java con funciones que permiten su manipulación y la opción de exportar a otros formatos como JPEG, TIFF y BMP. Conclusiones: El sistema permitió en modalidades como tomografía computadorizada (TC) e imagen por resonancia magnética (RM) un diagnóstico e interpretación remota clínicamente confiables, con tiempos de respuesta aceptables para las necesidades y modo de actuar reales de los centros radiológicos participantes.

Objective: To implement a teleradiology pilot system in Medellín city using software for remote access, this allows the communication and interpretation of biomedical images at distance. Materials and methods: Images from different magnetic resonance and computed tomography studies stored in DICOM format were used. Data were transmitted in a point-to-point network using an integrated services digital network (ISDN) line between two radiological diagnostic centers. The system was developed under PC Intel’s x86 architecture, with Windows® 2000 as the operating system. Results: In order to read and visualize images stored in DICOM format, a Java application with functions that allow their manipulation and the option to export them to other formats such as JPEG, TIFF and BMP was developed. Conclusion: The system allows a clinically reliable diagnostic and remote interpretation for modalities such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) images, with acceptable response times.

Image Transfer Using Cellular Phones and Wireless Internet Service

OBJECTIVE: Neuroimaging data are of paramount importance in making correct diagnosis. We herein evaluate the clinical usefulness of image transfer using cellular phones to facilitate neurological diagnosis and decision-making. METHODS: Selected images from CT, MRI scans, and plain films obtained from 50 neurosurgical patients were transferred by cellular phones. A cellular phone with a built-in 1,300,000-pixel digital camera was used to capture and send the images. A cellular phone with a 262,000 color thin-film transistor liquid crystal display was used to receive the images. Communication between both cellular phones was operated by the same wireless protocol and the same wireless internet service. We compared the concordance of diagnoses and treatment plans between a house staff who could review full-scale original films and a consultant who could only review transferred images. These finding were later analyzed by a third observer. RESULTS: The mean time of complete transfer was 2~3 minutes. The quality of all images received was good enough to make precise diagnosis and to select treatment options. Transferred images were helpful in making correct diagnosis and decision making in 49/50 (98%) cases. Discordant result was caused in one patient by improper selection of images by the house staff. CONCLUSION: The cellular phone system was useful for image transfer and delivery of patient's information, leading to earlier diagnosis and initiation of treatment. This usefulness was due to sufficient resolution of the built-in camera and the TFT-LCD, the user-friendly features of the devices, and their low cost.

Development of Asymmetric Satellite Data Communication System and Evaluation Compared to Conventional terrestrial Network / 대한의료정보학회지

We developed the Tele-PACS of radiology, which uses the communication network as asymmetric satellite data communication system. The asymmetric satellite data communication system uses receive-only satellite links for data delivery and PSTN(Public Switched Telephone Network) modem or N-ISDN(Narrow-band Integrate Services Digital Network) for communication. The satellite communication linking we implemented showed the very high-speed performance compared to the terrestrial linking such as 28.8 kbps modem linking or 56Kbps linking. The satellite linking was 5-10 times faster than the terrestrial linking on the average. We developed the down-link system of satellite and the medical collaborative tools and the Web-based Image-viewer. We concluded that 1) Satellite networking is currently the cheapest and fastest solution for internet access. 2) Web-based Image-Viewer enables small size hospitals in rural area to connect to the central PACS easily and to retrieve the image data reliably. 3) The suggested teleradiology system using satellite networking could be adequate to the fast telemedicine and telecare for rural hospitals especially located in geographically isolated areas such as islands.

Development of Asymmetric Satellite Data Communication System and Evaluation Compared to Conventional terrestrial Network / 대한의료정보학회지

We developed the Tele-PACS of radiology, which uses the communication network as asymmetric satellite data communication system. The asymmetric satellite data communication system uses receive-only satellite links for data delivery and PSTN(Public Switched Telephone Network) modem or N-ISDN(Narrow-band Integrate Services Digital Network) for communication. The satellite communication linking we implemented showed the very high-speed performance compared to the terrestrial linking such as 28.8 kbps modem linking or 56Kbps linking. The satellite linking was 5-10 times faster than the terrestrial linking on the average. We developed the down-link system of satellite and the medical collaborative tools and the Web-based Image-viewer. We concluded that 1) Satellite networking is currently the cheapest and fastest solution for internet access. 2) Web-based Image-Viewer enables small size hospitals in rural area to connect to the central PACS easily and to retrieve the image data reliably. 3) The suggested teleradiology system using satellite networking could be adequate to the fast telemedicine and telecare for rural hospitals especially located in geographically isolated areas such as islands.