Accuracy of interpretation of CT scans: comparing PACS monitor displays and hard-copy images.

Publication/Presentation Date

12-1-2002

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine the relative diagnostic accuracy of radiologists in the interpretation of CT scans using a computer workstation in comparison with using film.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four board-certified radiologists with extensive soft-copy experience interpreted 117 CT scans in four anatomic regions using films displayed on an alternator and images displayed on a four-monitor workstation. The radiologists were asked to interpret the scans in their usual fashion and were aware that both the time required to review the study and the accuracy of the reports were being assessed. The radiologists' diagnostic impressions were compared with those of a consensus panel and scored for accuracy.

RESULTS: Soft-copy interpretation using computer workstations was found to produce statistically significant improvement in combined measurements of sensitivity, specificity, and overall accuracy for chest, brain, and chest-abdominal CT scans compared with film interpretation.

CONCLUSION: PACS (picture archiving and communication system) offers radiologists the potential for improved accuracy in CT interpretation compared with traditional film-based interpretation.

Volume

179

Issue

6

First Page

1407

Last Page

1410

ISSN

0361-803X

Disciplines

Diagnosis | Medicine and Health Sciences | Other Analytical, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Techniques and Equipment | Radiology

PubMedID

12438025

Department(s)

Department of Radiology and Diagnostic Medical Imaging

Document Type

Article

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