A digital radiology imaging system: description and clinical evaluation.
We have successfully interfaced an advanced microcomputer system to a 47-cm image intensifier for direct digital radiology. Our development effort has included the design and construction of hardware and the implementation of software. The system matrix (spatial resolution) is 1024 X 1024 and contrast resolution is 8 bits deep. A receiver-operator-characteristic analysis comparing conventional and digital laser chest radiographs for the detection of lung nodules demonstrated no statistical difference. Dosimetry measurements identified decreased patient dose. The intensifier-based digital imaging system is being increasingly used for a variety of examinations including IV pyelograms, all kinds of barium studies, and skeletal, trauma, and chest studies. Hard-copy laser-printed digital images with "bones black" are preferred by the radiology staff and have been well accepted by referring clinicians.
D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D006801:Humans; D007834:Lasers; D008838:Microcomputers; D010781:Photography / Q000295:instrumentation; D011856:Radiographic Image Enhancement / Q000295:instrumentation*; D012984:Software; D003074:Solitary Pulmonary Nodule / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging