DICOM

Click Here

Innovative Solutions

DICOM

The Digital Imaging and Communication On Medicine(DICOM) standard is a high level standard which encompasses many variables which extend their scope much beyond the realm of information exchange and data handling.

The DICOM standard defines the following aspects

The data structures and formats to be used for medical image transmission and related data
Network based services which include image transmission, image archiving, printing functions.
Cross functional integration of the Image archive query system(PACS) and Radiology Information System(RIS) for ensuring seamless data management and output.

An overview of the DICOM Data Structure

A DICOM image consists of various attributes of data elements. These attributes hold various types of information about the patient which include the patient's Name, Sex and Identification Number. The Attributes are also defined on the various parameters which include device parameters, calibration metrics, image and media information etc which are critical in enhancing the correct identification of various medical conditions which exist for the patient. While these data elements have been clearly defined in the DICOM standard which gives it enormous flexibility, the incompleteness of information is a major drawback in the system operation and can cause severe problems when data exchange is involved.

DICOM Network Interface

The DICOM models work on the client and server based interface. Every exchange of data requires the establishment of a connection between the client and server and must have a clear definition of the various aspects of the interface functionality.

These aspects cover the following areas:

Client Server Definition
DICOM Service Types
Data transmission formats

A data connection is established only when there are common agreements between both the transmitter and receiver about the type of data transmission and the variables involved. The Associated application entities then convert the files in a viewable format which can be seen by the user. These files can be shared using a variety of peripherals like cameras and printers which aid in the image distribution process.

The DICOM Communication Standard

The DICOM Communication standard is clearly established worldwide and clearly defines the various aspects of communication protocols which are created within the DICOM standard for smooth functioning of the standard.

This standard supports the DIMSE(DICOM Message Service Element) protocols which enable the exchange of messages between layers. The DICOM Standard uses a TCP/IP protocol which is used to communicate between various devices present in the network at various points.

DICOM Standard Features

The DICOM standard is open ended, therefore various applications can be structured around it. This has given the standard enormous amount of flexibility in providing solutions for every type of operational requirement which may exist in the medical field. Right from the stage of image capture to final tagging and processing, the DICOM standard defines and delineates the various parameters which need to be included in the DICOM modules or softwares.

The DICOM standard streamlines the various workflow aspects of the image capturing storage and transmission system across various hospital networks. Equipment carrying the DICOM standard are future proof and will work with any type of future DICOM protocols which may exist. This compatibility is the key for every hospital to reduce their costs of having an integrated image capture, storage and transmission system.

Advanced version of the standard now support the automated scheduling collection and storage of various tasks within a hospital system. These ensure an updated patient status scheduling, Imaging capture, Image storing and Procedural status of the various images within the DICOM network.

Offline storage and capture are and essential element of the DICOM standard and these enable the printing and distribution of DICOM images which have all the parameters required for processing.

An additional feature of the DICOM standard is the move towards a paperless and filmless Hospital system where everything is electronically stored and enhanced at various levels of the workflow system. The DICOM Standard also suggests a online printing module which is available for any sudden requirement or image transfer to a non DICOM compliant system.