Maria Law, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Han K. Huang DSC, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Lawrence Chan PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Xiaoyan Zhang, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Jianyong Sun PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

DICOM-RT objects were ratified by 1999 but were neither totally nor widely used because of its complexity and its tediousness in implementation. The objective of this research is to develop a prototype DICOM-based Radiotherapy Information System for the radiotherapy community to appreciate the advantages of a common standard for radiotherapy information and to persuade for its implementation.

The workflow of a generic radiotherapy department and user requirements were reviewed, from which the data flow was designed. A prototype of the system consisting of a Radiotherapy Modality Simulator, a RT Gateway, a RT Archive Server, a RT Web Application Server and the Web client was designed. DICOM-RT objects and non-DICOM files were collected from various RT-related imaging and radiotherapy systems. All non-DICOM files were converted into the DICOM format. The data files were then organized into DICOM-based virtual patients to test out the data flow through the system. Usability testing, including connectivity with Treatment Planning System and analysis by typical end-users was conducted for evaluation of the system. The evaluation results were used for iterative modifications to the system.

1. A prototype of the system was developed and implemented. 2. Eleven windows with graphic user interface for the web client were designed for use by the end-users who are radiation oncologists and radiation therapists. 3. Data of ten virtual patients were input to the RT archive server, and reviewed at the web client workstation. The data flow was verified at the RT Archive Server and the RT Web Application Server. The data integrity was reviewed and verified at the web client. 4. Transmission of DICOM-RT objects from a treatment planning system using DICOM export to the RT archive server was successful. 5. End users were invited to perform the evaluation and their feedback was adopted to modify the system.

The development of the DICOM-based RT Information System will facilitate the communication of RT information between equipment from different vendors, and improve the productivity of the Oncology Department and the healthcare efficiency.

Law, M, Huang, H, Chan, L, Zhang, X, Sun, J, The Development and Implementation of a Prototype DICOM-based Radiotherapy Information System.  Radiological Society of North America 2004 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 28 - December 3, 2004 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2004/4407360.html