[A new concept for integration of image databanks into a comprehensive patient documentation].
Image processing and archiving are of increasing importance in the practice of modern medicine. Particularly due to the introduction of computer-based investigation methods, physicians are dealing with a wide variety of analogue and digital picture archives. On the other hand, clinical information is stored in various text-based information systems without integration of image components. The link between such traditional medical databases and picture archives is a prerequisite for efficient data management as well as for continuous quality control and medical education. At the Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Berne, a software program was developed to create a complete multimedia electronic patient record. The client-server system contains all patients' data, questionnaire-based quality control, and a digital picture archive. Different interfaces guarantee the integration into the hospital's data network. This article describes our experiences in the development and introduction of a comprehensive image archiving system at a large orthopedic center.
Schöll
E
E
Klinik für Orthopädische Chirurgie, Universität Bern, Inselspital, 3010 Bern, Schweiz. schoell@dplanet.ch
Holm
J
J
Eggli
S
S
D003199:Computer Systems; D003628:Database Management Systems / Q000295:instrumentation; D004282:Documentation / Q000379:methods*; D006751:Hospital Information Systems; D006801:Humans; D016347:Medical Records Systems, Computerized / Q000295:instrumentation*; D009985:Orthopedics; D011786:Quality Control; D011873:Radiology Information Systems / Q000295:instrumentation*; D012984:Software; D013557:Switzerland