Data compression techniques for CT image archiving

Large digital files are inherent to computed tomography (CT) image data. The CT installations that routinely archive patient data are penalized computer time, technologist's time, tape, purchase, and file space. This paper introduces compression techniques that reduce the amount of tape needed to store image data and the amount of computer time to do so. The benefits delivered by this technique have also been applied to CT disk systems in which limited on-line memory requires compact file storage. Typical reductions of 40 to 50% of original file space are reported.