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


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.


CONCLUSIONS
PACS (picture archiving and communication system) offers radiologists the potential for improved accuracy in CT interpretation compared with traditional film-based interpretation.
Reiner
Bruce I
BI
Department of Radiology, Veterans Affairs Maryland Healthcare System, 10 N. Greene St., Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
Siegel
Eliot L
EL
Hooper
Frank J
FJ
D001921:Brain / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005189:False Positive Reactions; D006801:Humans; D010388:Pelvis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011860:Radiography, Abdominal; D013902:Radiography, Thoracic; D011873:Radiology Information Systems; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014962:X-Ray Film