Application of Picture Archiving and Communication Systems

Purpose To evaluate the value of Picture Archiving and Communication System(PACS)combining with Hospital Information System(HIS)and Radiology Information System(RIS)in the clinical practice.Materials and Methods PACS network system provided by GE health care company combined with HIS and RIS was used.The work protocol of PACS,workstations needed,the distribution of information sites,data traffic and storage were analyzed.HL7/DICOM gateway was established between PACS and HIS.HL7 standards were used for HIS/RIS interfaces.DICOM 3.0 connectivity was used in PACS.Image lossless compression to the original 1/3 to 1/4 was done for storage.Results PACS change the typical work patterns and processes.Information can be shared fully.Conclusion Image acquisition,display,storage,transmission,and paperless information management can be performed by PACS.