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Ultrafast networks (ATM): first clinical experiences
A J Duerinckx1, D J Valentino, A Hayrapetian
1Radiology Service, West Los Angeles VA Medical Center, CA 90073, USA. ajd@ucla.edu
European Journal of Radiology
|June 1, 1996
Summary
Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) networks offer high bandwidth for medical imaging, enabling interactive radiology consultations between specialists across institutions. Despite high costs, ATM technology shows potential for improving patient care and clinical teaching in radiology.
Area of Science:
- Medical Informatics
- Telecommunications Engineering
- Radiology
Background:
- Ultrafast networks are crucial for the demands of the medical imaging community.
- Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) technology offers high bandwidth and throughput.
- Current trials assess ATM's impact on clinical radiology practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of ATM networks in facilitating interactive radiology consultations.
- To assess the impact of ATM technology on patient care and clinical teaching in radiology.
Main Methods:
- Review of the ATM concept.
- Description of early clinical ATM network installations in four global medical environments (UCLA, UCSF, Duke, Berlin).
- Evaluation of ATM technology's use in realistic clinical settings.
Main Results:
- ATM networks provide sufficient bandwidth for medical imaging needs.
- Interactive radiology consultations between subspecialists and general radiologists are feasible.
- Early installations demonstrate the potential of ATM for regional Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS).
Conclusions:
- ATM networks enable effective image communication and interactive consultations across geographically dispersed medical centers.
- Cost should not be the sole determinant for adopting ATM technology due to its communication capabilities.
- ATM technology has the potential to enhance patient care and radiology education.