A peripheralized digital image management system: prospectus

The number of diagnostic radiology examinations being performed on digitally formatted imaging equipment is continually increasing. However, most digital data are recorded as analogue images and the films stored in a central file. The dynamic range of raw digital data is lost. Currently, the space and cost requirements for storage of all digital data have discouraged most users from attempting it. This article presents the concepts and describes the requirements and initial fabrication of a system that will capture and retain all digital data using a network of peripheralized image acquisition, display, and storage devices. Any piece of digitally formatted equipment can be interfaced into the system. A real-time computer capability provides that any digital examination can be reviewed at any display station for up to 10 days.