PACS monitors: an evolution of radiologist's viewing techniques

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging Technology
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) are increasingly adopted in radiology.
• Initial implementation often involves replicating film-based reading room setups, including multiple monitors.
• Radiologist workflow and preferences evolve with PACS experience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the evolution of monitor preferences among radiologists using PACS.
• To assess changes in image viewing techniques with PACS adoption.
• To identify factors influencing monitor requirements in a filmless environment.

Main Methods:

• Interviews with attending radiologists and residents regarding monitor use and viewing habits.
• Recording of preferred monitor numbers and types for various imaging modalities (plain films, ultrasound, CT, MRI).
• Observation of changes in image display and viewing styles over time.

Main Results:

• A decrease in the number of monitors used from initial preconceptions to actual practice.
• Further reduction in monitor usage from initial PACS use to current use.
• Changes in viewing techniques for cross-sectional images, with fewer images displayed per monitor.
• Preference shift towards 2 monitors, and occasionally 1, for image interpretation.

Conclusions:

• Radiologist monitor preferences decrease with PACS experience.
• Advanced presentation software and mouse functionalities facilitate a paradigm shift in viewing habits.
• Reduced monitor requirements enhance PACS affordability and promote filmless radiology adoption.
• Vendors should optimize PACS for 2-monitor systems to meet evolving radiologist needs.