[Orthorad--the online reference database of skeletal plain film radiography].
OBJECTIVE
It is evident that there is a growing need for Internet-based reference databases for reasons of practicability and due to the increasing use of reporting on digital workstations. The main advantages of online databases are expected with respect to plain film radiography and cross-sectional imaging. A reference database of skeletal plain film radiography was to be created using the Orthorad program.


METHODS
The most important standard settings and special images of young and healthy adults in plain film radiography were collected over one year. All samples were approved for the Orthorad database by a board qualified radiologist. Based on the workflows of radiographers and radiologists, the records were organized by body part ( http://www.idr.med.uni-erlangen.de/orthorad/orthorad.htm ). This logical data structure will ensure that the tool serves as a source of information in two ways: On the one hand, the radiographer can access information on positioning, tube voltage and cassette format. On the other hand, the radiologist receives important knowledge regarding X-ray anatomy, reference data regarding the human skeleton, and information about the correct reporting for an image.


CONCLUSIONS
Orthorad is used as an online reference database for traumatologic plain film radiography to support radiographers and radiologists in their daily working routines. To date, user feedback has been positive.
Hinkmann
F M
FM
Radiologisches Institut, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg. Fabian.Hinkmann@idr.imed.uni-erlangen.de
Heberlein
C
C
Greess
H
H
Ketelsen
D
D
Klose
K J
KJ
Grunewald
M
M
D000328:Adult; D001842:Bone and Bones / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D019992:Databases as Topic; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D009862:Online Systems; D011859:Radiography; D011871:Radiology / Q000193:education; D011873:Radiology Information Systems