Related Experiment Videos
[Time needs in evaluating digital thoracic images on the monitor in comparison with alternator]
K A Herrmann1, H M Bonél, A Stäbler
1Institut für Klinische Radiologie Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Grosshadern. Karin.Herrmann@ikra.med.uni-muenchen.de
Purpose:
Evaluation of time efficiency in softcopy reading versus hardcopy reading of digital chest x-rays.
Material And Methods:
130 normal and pathologic chest x-rays in two plains were analyzed by 4 experienced radiologist at both a digital workstation and the light box. Reading time and switch time between two patient folders were measured as well as the frequency of post-processing at the monitor.
Results:
Reading time at the workstation slightly exceeded reading time at the light box; differences were not statistically significant. Post-processing (frequency between 2% and 83%) did not significantly prolong reading time. Mean switch time between two patient folders was 4.3 sec at the workstation and 13.7 sec at the light box.
Conclusion:
As compared to hardcopy reading, softcopy reading of digital chest x-rays does not significantly increase reading time. Switch time between patient folders can be reduced at the workstation by a factor of two to four.