A teleradiology case conference system

To investigate the use of teleradiology in the quality assurance programme of a multicentre radiotherapy practice, we installed image acquisition and display workstations at each of two affiliated radiation oncology clinics. A commercial diagnostic teleradiology system was successfully modified to suit the requirements of the radiotherapy subspecialty. The system allowed intersite transmission of images, access to high-resolution images from each site and, by use of laser film scanners, made accessible all types of radiation therapy image. Transmission speed and storage capacity were better than expected. Using the system, radiation oncology residents and staff reviewed 83 complex cases over eight months. Case presentation and discussion were enhanced. In the same period, 276 cases were reviewed by conference in person. Case conferences for quality assurance conducted with the teleradiology system influenced changes in treatment planning as effectively as those conducted in person. Equivalent treatment outcomes were produced. The teleradiology system facilitated quality assurance through review of patients' radiation treatments by allowing natural interactive consultation.