Eric Peter Tamm MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Janio Szklaruk, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Revathy B. Iyer MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Haesun Choi MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Elizabeth Anne Lano MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Richard L. Holmes PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

For radiology departments to convert to filmless systems, clinicians need to be able to review images digitally. Web-based image review software has made this possible. When PACS and Web-based image review are both implemented, there exist unique possibilities for remote collaboration between radiologists and clinicians. In the setting of increasing workloads for both clinicians and radiologists, such tools can improve efficiency by eliminating the time required for setting up “face-to-face” image review sessions.In this exhibit we review two methods for remote consultation. The first is that of the creation of annotated images by radiologists prior to initiating a consultation with a clinician. Annotation tools are available on many PACS platforms. This technique is useful when a radiologist initiates the consultation but it is not practical when clinicians initiate consultations. The second method utilizes NetMeeting (Microsoft, Redmond, WA). This program runs on computers that utilize the Windows family of operating systems and is included with Windows 2000 and XP operating systems. It allows for multiple users to hold a “virtual” meeting in which programs can be shared. At our institution, the iSite (Stentor, Brisbane, CA) PACS, and the Clinicstation Web-based product for patient review (developed at our institution, utilizing the iSite software) applications, utilized on computers using the Windows 2000 (Microsoft) operating system, can be shared between radiologists and clinicians, allowing each to review images and to indicate findings of interest to each other in real time. This paper will also discuss how to optimize NetMeeting for radiologic consultation and limitations encountered that should be considered in the development of future tools for collaboration. For example, while verbal communication (and video via a web-cam) are possible, it is best to utilize simultaneously the telephone for verbal interaction to improve the performance of sharing imaging software.

1. To identify options for facilitating remote, or "telephone," consultations using the tools of a PACS.2. To review the benefits/limits of a meeting application, Microsoft's "Netmeeting," for remote true interactive consultation.

Tamm, E, Szklaruk, J, Iyer, R, Choi, H, Lano, E, Holmes, R, Online Tools for Collaboration between Radiologists and Clinicians in a PACS Environment.  Radiological Society of North America 2004 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 28 - December 3, 2004 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2004/4408719.html