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Thirty Years of the DICOM Standard
1Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), I-80145 Napoli, Italy.
The Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) standard revolutionized medical imaging over 30 years. This review examines its innovations, benefits, drawbacks, and future potential for healthcare technology.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging Technology
- Healthcare Informatics
- International Standards Development
Background:
- The Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) standard has been pivotal in medical imaging for three decades.
- Its widespread adoption has impacted manufacturers, healthcare providers, and researchers significantly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the innovations and advantages of the DICOM standard after 30 years.
- To discuss the limitations encountered during its adoption.
- To explore potential future directions for DICOM in medical imaging.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of DICOM's evolution and impact.
- Analysis of adoption experiences across different stakeholders.
- Discussion of current challenges and future trends in medical imaging communication.
Main Results:
- DICOM has driven substantial transformation in medical imaging data handling and communication.
- Key innovations include standardized image formats and communication protocols.
- Identified limitations relate to implementation complexities and evolving technological needs.
Conclusions:
- The DICOM standard remains a cornerstone of modern medical imaging.
- Addressing its limitations and adapting to future technological advancements are crucial for continued success.
- Future directions may involve enhanced interoperability and integration with AI in medical imaging.
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