Gabriel Bartal MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Jurate Dementaviciene, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Natan Peled, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

John Moshe Gomori MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Traditional PACS systems rely on short term online storage systems (RAID) and long term near line storage (tape autoloaders). Our aim was to assess different concept of PACS using a fully online archive, automatic creation, labeling and administration of backup media and a network distributable uniform diagnostic software plug-in for diagnosis and viewing.

We use a PACS system (CDP Ltd., Israel) that comprises long term online RAID technology with x3 JPAG lossless compression and robotic CD/DVD recording system. All images are instantaneously accessible to authorized reading and post processing stations over the hospital network. Outpatient images are produced on CD’s. Daily backup is created by the system on DVD's. A post processing software ("DiagNET") is deployed as a plug-in to any PC within the hospital. The PACS is connected to 2 multi slice CT (64 and 40 slice), 2 Ultrasound systems and CR, serving in real-time 120 (DiagNET) stations using a fast protocol.

Near-line storage and pre-fetching was eliminated with low cost multi-Terabyte RAID arrays. During one year the system acquired an average of 20GB per day, total 6TB. The x3 lossless compression increased storage capacity of the RAID's. The system is modularly expandable and convertible to new RAID or alternative storage technologies. WEB based distribution allowed independent diagnostic "plug-in" enabled flexibility using and low-cost diverse diagnostic and viewing stations. Fast online storage combined with a very fast communication protocol enables real time retrieval of the patient's complete history.

Scalable RAID arrays with lossless compression eliminate the need for the pre-fetch technology and enable real-time image access. A concept of universal, centrally distributed diagnostic software that adapts to any platform radically reduces dedicated workstation and viewing station licensing and deployment costs. Hardware independent archiving software facilitates modular storage technology upgradeability. CD/DVD burner automatically produces high quality back-up and personal copies. The overall combination results in a cost effective easily deployable highly efficient and reliable PACS system.

Bartal, G, Dementaviciene, J, Peled, N, Gomori, J, Cost-effective, Easily Deployable, Highly Efficient and Reliable PACS System.  Radiological Society of North America 2005 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 27 - December 2, 2005 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2005/4413798.html