[Digital teaching archive. Concept, implementation, and experiences in a university setting].

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Education
• Health Informatics

Context:

• Traditional film-based teaching files are resource-intensive.
• Digital technologies enable efficient distribution of radiologic teaching cases via intranets and the internet.
• Integrating digital teaching files (DTFs) into Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) and Radiology Information Systems (RIS) is crucial.

Purpose:

• To describe the development and integration of a Digital Teaching File (DTF) system.
• To outline essential functions for a DTF, including image import, editing, classification, quality control, access control, and retrieval.
• To highlight the suitability of the Portable Network Graphics (PNG) format and the American College of Radiology (ACR) Index for Radiological Diagnoses for DTFs.

Summary:

• The developed DTF system utilizes standard internet technologies and integrates with existing PACS/RIS environments.
• It facilitates rapid DICOM_Send transfer of images during interpretation and provides anytime, anywhere access via a web browser within the hospital intranet.
• The system supports essential DTF functions, including image handling, case classification using the ACR Index, peer review, and controlled user access.

Impact:

• DTFs streamline the distribution and accessibility of radiologic teaching materials, reducing reliance on costly film-based systems.
• The system enhances radiologic education and knowledge management within healthcare institutions.
• It serves as a foundational component for institutional knowledge management strategies in radiology.