RadLex and SNOMED CT integration: a pilot study for standardising radiology classification
Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 22, 2025

Author Spotlight: An Efficient and Robust Software for Automated Fusion of Multiple Preclinical Imaging Modalities
Published on: October 27, 2023
Merit Marquis1, Igor Bossenko2, Peeter Ross2
1Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia. merit.marquis@gmail.com.
Background:
Effective communication and information exchange across diverse platforms are critical in healthcare data systems. However, the presence of multiple coding systems and varying standards creates discrepancies and misalignments, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to address these challenges.
Objective:
The study aimed to develop a technical and semantic interoperability method specifically for radiology procedures, utilising the terminology management tool TermX to facilitate efficient data exchange and utilisation in healthcare.
Results:
The study resulted in a revised RadLex data model using SNOMED CT, accompanied by a mapping guide and a classification system for X-ray and angiography procedures. This classification system consists of nineteen distinct properties, each defined by specific value sets derived from SNOMED CT terminology. A total of 380 concepts were utilised to describe the 622 procedures examined comprehensively.
Conclusion:
Through twelve design cycles involving in-depth analysis and iterative refinement, the mapping of angiography and X-ray procedures was successfully achieved, culminating in the creation and validation of a universal model that enhances both primary and secondary data collection. The efficacy and innovation of this system pave the way for further advancements in healthcare interoperability.
Critical Relevance Statement:
The innovative integration achieved in this study for standardising radiology classification promises to improve data management practices and enhance patient care outcomes through increased interoperability within the healthcare sector.
Key Points:
A universal radiology procedure model to enhance capture would be valuable. A tool to facilitate technical and semantic interoperability for efficient data exchange in healthcare was created. This system could pave the way for futher advancements in healthcare interoperability.
More Related Videos
10:33Expedited Radiation Biodosimetry by Automated Dicentric Chromosome Identification ADCI and Dose Estimation
Published on: September 4, 2017
07:50A Metadata Extraction Approach for Clinical Case Reports to Enable Advanced Understanding of Biomedical Concepts
Published on: September 20, 2018
Related Concept Videos
Radiological Investigation I: X-ray and CT
Positron Emission Tomography
One of the main requirements of a PET scan is a positron-emitting radioisotope, which is produced in a cyclotron and then attached to a substance used by the part of the body...
Computed Tomography
The technique was invented in the 1970s and is based on the principle that as X-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed or reflected at different levels. In the technique, a patient lies on a motorized platform while a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanner rotates...
Radiological Investigation II: MRI and Ventilation Perfusion Scan
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ventilation Perfusion Scans are two radiological investigations that offer detailed diagnostic images of the body, particularly lung structures.
MRI
MRI uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues. This technology provides a more detailed diagnostic image than CT scans, enabling it to characterize pulmonary nodules, stage bronchogenic carcinoma, and evaluate inflammatory activity in...
Radiological Investigation III: Pulmonary Angiogram and PET Scan
Pulmonary Angiogram
A Pulmonary Angiogram is an invasive procedure involving injecting a contrast medium through a catheter threaded into the pulmonary artery or the right side of the heart to visualize the pulmonary vasculature. Computed Tomography (CT) scans have mainly replaced this...