Informatics in radiology (infoRAD): an open source framework for modification and communication of DICOM objects

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging Informatics
• Health IT Interoperability
• Software Engineering in Healthcare

Background:

• Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) require flexible tools for managing medical images.
• Interoperability challenges exist with non-standard compliant medical imaging modalities.
• Efficient handling and modification of Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) objects are crucial for clinical workflows.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a configurable, open-source Java framework for receiving, modifying, and exporting DICOM images.
• To address interoperability issues and facilitate data exchange within diverse PACS environments.
• To create a flexible platform adaptable to various clinical imaging scenarios and future applications.

Main Methods:

• Developed a framework with receiver, processing pipeline (configurable plug-ins), and sender components.
• Implemented user-programmable plug-ins using Extensible Stylesheet Language Transformations (XSLT) for DICOM to XML conversion.
• Supported input/output via DICOM Storage service, CD-ROMs, and local file systems.

Main Results:

• Successfully applied the toolbox to correct non-Integrating the Healthcare Enterprise (IHE) conform DICOM objects.
• Enabled pseudonaming of DICOM images and facilitated IHE Portable Data for Imaging (PDI) profile usage.
• Demonstrated reliability and adaptability in clinical routine scenarios.

Conclusions:

• The developed framework provides a reliable and configurable solution for DICOM image manipulation and exchange.
• Open programming interfaces allow for easy adaptation to evolving clinical needs and future applications.
• The toolbox enhances interoperability and workflow efficiency in PACS environments.