Automated scanning and digitizing of roentgenographs for documentation and research

A comprehensive system has been developed for analyzing and reporting the results of total hip arthroplasty. The personal-computer-based system links patient demographic data with digital storage, retrieval, and analysis of roentgenographs. The system consists of a roentgenograph scanner for converting sheet film to digital data, an optical mark reader for patient data input, an archiving system with optical storage, and a physician display station for preoperative planning and postoperative evaluation. Once a roentgenograph has been digitized and stored, the image can be retrieved and manipulated in a manner not possible with the original sheet film. A selected roentgenograph can be brought to full or enlarged scale, enhanced, and overlaid with templates for preoperative planning or for postoperative measurement of changes. In addition, an intelligent database system has been developed for linking patient demographic information with the roentgenographic data. The database system employs uniform criteria and terminology and allows the retrospective study and statistical analysis of comparable cases. Three machine-readable code sheets are used: Form A, Replacement of the Hip; Form B, Hip Prosthesis Reoperation; and Form C, Follow-up. Forms A and B contain information concerning anamnesis, diagnosis, treatment, postoperative course, recovery, and discharge of the patient from the hospital. Form C provides information on physical examination, pain, mobility of the hip, walking ability, and evaluation of the results by the surgeon as well as the patient.