Are we ready to stratify BI-RADS 4 lesions observed on magnetic resonance imaging? A real-world noninferiority/equivalence analysis / Estamos prontos para estratificar lesões BI-RADS 4 na ressonância magnética? Uma análise de não inferioridade/equivalência do mundo real

Abstract Objective: To demonstrate that positive predictive values (PPVs) for suspicious (category 4) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings that have been stratified are equivalent to those stipulated in the American College of Radiology Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) for mammography and ultrasound. Materials and Methods: This retrospective analysis of electronic medical records generated between January 4, 2016 and December 29, 2021 provided 365 patients in which 419 suspicious (BI-RADS category 4) findings were subcategorized as BI-RADS 4A, 4B or 4C. Malignant and nonmalignant outcomes were determined by pathologic analyses, follow-up, or both. For each subcategory, the level 2 PPV (PPV2) was calculated and tested for equivalence/noninferiority against the established benchmarks. Results: Of the 419 findings evaluated, 168 (40.1%) were categorized as malignant and 251 (59.9%) were categorized as nonmalignant. The PPV2 for subcategory 4A was 14.2% (95% CI: 9.3-20.4%), whereas it was 41.2% (95% CI: 32.8-49.9%) for subcategory 4B and 77.2% (95% CI: 68.4-84.5%) for subcategory 4C. Multivariate analysis showed a significantly different cancer yield for each subcategory (p < 0.001). Conclusion: We found that stratification of suspicious findings by MRI criteria is feasible, and malignancy probabilities for sub-categories 4B and 4C are equivalent to the values established for the other imaging methods in the BI-RADS. Nevertheless, low suspicion (4A) findings might show slightly higher malignancy rates.

Resumo Objetivo: Demonstrar que os valores preditivos positivos (VPPs) para lesões suspeitas (categoria 4) identificadas por ressonância magnética (RM) são equivalentes aos estipulados no ACR BI-RADS para mamografia e ultrassonografia. Materiais e Métodos: Análise retrospectiva de dados em prontuário eletrônico, entre 4 de janeiro de 2016 e 29 de dezembro de 2021, resultou em 365 pacientes elegíveis, com 419 lesões classificadas como BI-RADS 4A, 4B ou 4C. Desfechos malignos e não malignos foram determinados por estudo patológico e/ou acompanhamento. Realizamos o cálculo do VPP nível 2 (VPP2) para cada subcategoria e testamos para não inferioridade/equivalência em relação aos valores de referência. Resultados: Dos 419 achados, 168 (40,1%) foram malignos e 251 (59,9%), não malignos. O VPP2 para subcategoria 4A foi 14,2% (IC 95%: 9,3-20,4%), para 4B foi 41,2% (IC 95%:, 32,8-49,9%) e para 4C foi 77,2% (IC 95%: 68,4-84,5%). Análise multivariada demonstrou diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre as subcategorias (p < 0,001). Conclusão: A estratificação de achados suspeitos por RM é factível, sendo que a probabilidade de malignidade das subcategorias 4B e 4C é equivalente à estabelecida para outros métodos de imagem pelo BI-RADS. Contudo, lesões de baixa suspeição (4A) podem apresentar taxas mais altas de malignidade.

Use of the Bone Ninja Mobile Application as a Pre-operative Assessment and Simulation Tool in Patients Undergoing High Tibial Osteotomy / Uso do aplicativo móvel Bone Ninja como ferramenta de avaliação e simulação pré-operatória em pacientes submetidos a osteotomia tibial alta

Abstract Objective Our purpose was to facilitate the simulation of preoperative correction to enable shared doctor-patient decision-making in individuals undergoing high tibial osteotomy (HTO). Methods A total of 22 patients underwent high tibial osteotomy using internal or external fixation devices for medial compartment osteoarthritis of the knee. Preoperatively, assessment of deformity parameters and simulation of the corrective osteotomy was done in the presence of the patient, using Bone Ninja. Postoperatively, the patient's satisfaction level with the quality of explanation provided by the use of this software was assessed using the Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire-short (PSQ-18). A comparison of the correction obtained using paper cuttings and the simulation software was performed. Results All patients were satisfied with their role in the decision-making process. They showed a good understanding and comprehension of the proposed surgery. There was no statistically significant difference between simulated preoperative Medial Proximal Tibial Angle (MPTA) obtained by paper cuttings and software-assisted correction. The PSQ-18 mean score for communication was 4.24 (0.88), for technical quality it was 4.11 (0.59) and for general satisfaction it was 3.11 (0.68). Conclusion Bone Ninja is an effective, convenient, user-friendly and cost-effective deformity planning tool that supersedes the arduous traditional method of paper tracings and scissors.

Resumo Objetivo Nosso objetivo foi facilitar a simulação da correção no pré-operatório para permitir a tomada de decisão médico-paciente compartilhada em indivíduos submetidos a osteotomia tibial alta (OTA). Método22 pacientes foram submetidos a osteotomia tibial alta usando dispositivos de fixação internos ou externos para osteoartrite do compartimento medial do joelho. No pré-operatório, a avaliação dos parâmetros de deformidade e a simulação da osteotomia corretiva foram realizadas na presença do paciente, utilizando Bone Ninja. No pós-operatório, o nível de satisfação do paciente com a qualidade da explicação fornecida pelo uso deste software foi avaliado usando o Questionário de Satisfação do Paciente (Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire-short, PSQ-18, na sigla em inglês). Foi realizada uma comparação da correção obtida com recortes de papel e com o software de simulação. Resultados Todos os pacientes ficaram satisfeitos com seu papel no processo de tomada de decisão. Eles mostraram uma boa compreensão e entendimento da cirurgia proposta. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativamente entre o ângulo tibial proximal medial (ATPM) pré-operatório simulado obtido por recortes de papel e correção assistida por software. O escore médio do PSQ-18 para comunicação foi de 4,24 (0,88), para a qualidade técnica foi de 4,11 (0,59) e para a satisfação geral foi de 3,11 (0,68). Conclusão Bone Ninja é uma ferramenta de planejamento de deformidade eficaz, conveniente, fácil de usar e econômica que substitui o método tradicional árduo de traçar no papel e com tesoura.

Subspecialized radiology reporting: productivity and impact on the turnaround times for radiology reports in a middle-income country / Radiologia subespecializada: produtividade e impacto no tempo de resposta dos relatórios de radiologia em um país em desenvolvimento

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the effect that transitioning from a model of general radiology reporting to one of subspecialized radiology reporting has on report turnaround times (TATs) and on productivity in the radiology department of a hospital in a middle-income country. Materials and Methods: The reporting workflow in our radiology department was changed from general reporting (any radiologist reporting imaging studies for any specialty) to subspecialized reporting (radiologists exclusively reporting imaging studies that fall within their subspecialty-abdominal, musculoskeletal, cardiothoracic, emergency, or neurological imaging). This was a retrospective study in which we compared general reporting with subspecialized reporting in terms of the following variables: the TAT; the proportions of reports completed within 2 h and within 24 h (TAT-2h and TAT- 24 h, respectively); and productivity. Data were collected over two 24-month periods (2015-2016 for general reporting and 2017-2018 for subspecialized reporting). Results: A total of 208,516 reports were generated. The median report TAT decreased from 49.1 h and 52.9 h in 2015 and 2016, respectively, to 16.1 h and 15.2 h in 2017 and 2018, respectively (p < 0.001). The TAT-2h also improved, increasing from 8.7% and 7.9% in 2015 and 2016, respectively, to 52.0% and 61.3% in 2017 and 2018, respectively (p < 0.001), as did the TAT- 24 h, which increased from 12.1% and 14.1% in 2015 and 2016, respectively, to 74.3% and 78.7% in 2017 and 2018, respectively (p < 0.001). Between the two periods, the total number of scans performed increased by 33% (p = 0.001). Conclusion: The implementation of a subspecialized reporting system significantly improved the median TAT for radiology reports, as well as increasing the TAT-2h and TAT- 24 h, during a time of increased productivity.

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito da transição de um modelo de laudos em radiologia realizados por radiologistas gerais para um modelo relatado por subespecialização no tempo de resposta de relatórios (TAT) em radiologia e produtividade em um departamento de radiologia em um país em desenvolvimento. Materiais e Métodos: O fluxo em nosso departamento foi modificado de um sistema de relatórios gerais (qualquer radiologista lauda exames de imagem de qualquer especialidade) para um sistema de subespecialização (radiologistas laudam exclusivamente exames de imagem pertencente a sua subespecialidade - abdominal, musculoesquelético, cardiotorácico, emergência e neurologia). Este estudo retrospectivo avaliou a TAT, TAT-2 horas e TAT-24 horas e a produtividade num período de 24 meses de relatórios gerais (2015-2016) comparado a um período de 24 meses do sistema de subespecialização (2017-2018). Resultados: No total, 208.516 laudos foram gerados. A TAT reportada reduziu de uma média de 49,1-52,9 horas durante o período geral para 15,2-16,1 horas durante o período de relatórios por subespecialidade (p < 0,001). TAT-2 horas e TAT- 24 horas aumentaram significativamente de 7,9-8,7% para 52,0-61,3% e de 12,1-14,1% para 74,3-78,7%, respectivamente (p < 0.001). O número total de exames aumentou em 33% (p = 0.001) comparando os dois períodos. Conclusão: A implementação de um sistema de laudos por subespecialidade aumentou o TAT em radiologia, incluindo benefícios no TAT-2 horas e TAT-24 horas durante um período de aumento da produtividade.

Radiology report format preferred by requesting physicians: prospective analysis in a population of physicians at a university hospital / Qual formato de laudo radiológico é preferido pelos médicos solicitantes: análise prospectiva em uma população médica de um hospital universitário

Abstract Objective: To improve communication between attending physicians and radiologists by defining which information should be included in radiology reports and which reporting format is preferred by requesting physicians at a university hospital. Materials and Methods: Respondents were asked to choose among reports with different formats and levels of detail, related to three hypothetical cases, and questioned as to which characteristics commonly found in radiology reports are appropriate for inclusion. To assign the absolute order of preference of the different reports, the Kemeny-Young method was used. Results: Ninety-nine physicians completed the questionnaires (40.4% were resident physicians; 31.3% were preceptors of residency programs; and 28.3% were professors of medicine). For ultrasound with normal findings, ultrasound showing alterations, and computed tomography, respectively, 54%, 59%, and 53% of the respondents chose structured reports with an impression or comment. According to the respondents, the characteristics that should be included in the radiology report are the quality of the image, details of the clinical presentation, diagnostic impression, examination technique, and information about contrast administration, selected by 92%, 91%, 89%, 72%, and 68%, respectively. Other characteristics that were considered important were recommendations on follow-up and additional radiological or non-radiological investigation. Conclusion: Requesting physicians apparently prefer structured reports with a radiologist impression or comment. Information such as the quality of the examination, the contrast agent used, and suggestions regarding follow-up and additional investigation are valued.

Resumo Objetivo: Melhorar a comunicação entre médicos assistentes e radiologistas, definindo quais informações deveriam ser incluídas num relatório radiológico e qual o formato preferido dos solicitantes de um hospital universitário. Materiais e Métodos: Os participantes foram convidados a escolher a opção preferida entre relatórios com diferentes formatos e níveis de detalhamento de três casos hipotéticos e questionados se características comumente encontradas em um laudo radiológico são apropriadas ou não para inclusão. Para atribuição da ordem absoluta de preferência dos diferentes relatórios, o método Kemeny-Young foi utilizado. Resultados: Noventa e nove médicos responderam os questionários (40,4% médicos residentes, 31,3% preceptores dos programas de residência e 28,3% professores da faculdade de medicina). Laudos estruturados com impressão ou comentário foram selecionados nas situações de ultrassonografia normal por 54% dos participantes, ultrassonografia alterada por 59% e tomografia computadorizada por 53%. As informações que deveriam ser incluídas, de acordo com os solicitantes, foram qualidade da imagem (92%), detalhes do cenário clínico (91%), impressão diagnóstica (89%), técnica do exame (72%), informações sobre meio de contraste (68%). Opiniões sobre seguimento e investigação radiológica ou não radiológica se mostraram importantes. Conclusão: Relatórios estruturados com impressão ou comentário de um radiologista são prepostos. Informações como qualidade de exame, meio de contraste utilizado e sugestões de acompanhamento e investigação adicional são valorizadas pelos médicos solicitantes.

The value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the biopsy of breast cancer with BI-RADS score of 4 lesions / 中国医师杂志

Objective To explore the value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the biopsy of patients with breast imaging reporting and data system (BI-RADS) score of 4 lesions.Methods Total of 136 cases of breast BI-RADS scores of 4 lesions admitted to Dongguan People's Hospital from June 2017 to May 2018 were enrolled and randomly divided into contrast-enhanced ultrasound group and general ultrasound group,68 cases in both group.The contrast-enhanced ultrasound group received contrast-enhanced ultrasound-guided breast nodule biopsy,and the general ultrasound group received general ultrasound-guided breast nodule biopsy.The success rate of puncture,the number of puncture needles,the satisfaction rate of the materials,the diagnostic sensitivity,the diagnostic specificity,the diagnostic coincidence rate,and the incidence of adverse puncture reactions were compared between two groups.Results The puncture success rate of both groups were 100％.The number of puncture needles in contrast-enhanced ultrasound group was (2.89 ± 0.56) times,and the general ultrasound group was (2.93 ± 0.62) times,with no statistically significant difference (P ＞ 0.05).The satisfaction rate of materials in the contrast-enhanced ultrasound group was 100％ (68/68),and the general ultrasound group was 94.12％ (64/68),with no statistically significant difference (P ＞ 0.05).The sensitivity in the contrast-enhanced ultrasound group and the general ultrasound group were 88.89％ (32/36) and 81.82％ (27/33),respectively,with no statistically significant difference (P ＞ 0.05).The specificity and coincidence rate in contrast-enhanced ultrasound group were 100％ (32/32) and 94.12％ (64/68),which were higher than 80.65％ (25/31) and 81.25％ (52/64) of the general ultrasound group,with statistically significant difference (P ＜ 0.05).The incidence of adverse reactions in the general ultrasound group and the contrast-enhanced ultrasound group were 10.94％ (7/64) and 2.94％ (2/68),respectively,with no statistically significant difference (P ＞ 0.05).Conclusions The contrast-enhanced ultrasound-guided breast nodule biopsy can achieve high puncture success rate in patients with breast cancer with BI-RADS scores 4 lesions,and help to confirm lesion activity,necrotic liquefaction area,more accurate localization,improved material satisfaction rate and biopsy,diagnostic efficacy,with significant clinical value.

PACS Implementation Challenges in a Public Healthcare Institution: A South African Vendor Perspective / 대한의료정보학회지

OBJECTIVES: Conventional radiological processes have been replaced by digital images and information technology systems within South Africa and other developing countries. Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) technology offers many benefits to institutions, medical personnel and patients; however, the implementation of such systems can be a challenging task. It has been documented that South Africa has been using PACS for more than a decade in public hospitals with moderate success. The aim of this study was to identify and describe the PACS challenges endured by PACS vendors during implementation in the South African public healthcare sector. METHODS: This was achieved by engaging in a methodological approach that was qualitative in nature collecting data through semi structured interviews from 10 PACS experts/participants which were later analysed qualitatively. RESULTS: The findings show that PACS vendors have countless challenges, some of which include space, insufficient infrastructure, image storage capacity, system maturity and vendor related concerns. It was clear that the PACS experts readily offered contextually appropriate descriptions of their encounters during PACS implementations in South African public healthcare institutions. CONCLUSIONS: PACS vendors anticipate these challenges when facing a public healthcare institution and it is recommended that the hospital management and potential PACS stakeholders be made aware of these challenges to mitigate their effects and aid in a successful implementation.

The value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the biopsy of breast cancer with BI-RADS score of 4 lesions / 中国医师杂志

Objective@#To explore the value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the biopsy of patients with breast imaging reporting and data system (BI-RADS) score of 4 lesions.@*Methods@#Total of 136 cases of breast BI-RADS scores of 4 lesions admitted to Dongguan People′s Hospital from June 2017 to May 2018 were enrolled and randomly divided into contrast-enhanced ultrasound group and general ultrasound group, 68 cases in both group. The contrast-enhanced ultrasound group received contrast-enhanced ultrasound-guided breast nodule biopsy, and the general ultrasound group received general ultrasound-guided breast nodule biopsy. The success rate of puncture, the number of puncture needles, the satisfaction rate of the materials, the diagnostic sensitivity, the diagnostic specificity, the diagnostic coincidence rate, and the incidence of adverse puncture reactions were compared between two groups.@*Results@#The puncture success rate of both groups were 100%. The number of puncture needles in contrast-enhanced ultrasound group was (2.89±0.56)times, and the general ultrasound group was (2.93±0.62)times, with no statistically significant difference (P>0.05). The satisfaction rate of materials in the contrast-enhanced ultrasound group was 100%(68/68), and the general ultrasound group was 94.12%(64/68), with no statistically significant difference (P>0.05). The sensitivity in the contrast-enhanced ultrasound group and the general ultrasound group were 88.89%(32/36) and 81.82%(27/33), respectively, with no statistically significant difference (P>0.05). The specificity and coincidence rate in contrast-enhanced ultrasound group were 100%(32/32) and 94.12%(64/68), which were higher than 80.65%(25/31) and 81.25%(52/64) of the general ultrasound group, with statistically significant difference (P<0.05). The incidence of adverse reactions in the general ultrasound group and the contrast-enhanced ultrasound group were 10.94%(7/64) and 2.94%(2/68), respectively, with no statistically significant difference (P>0.05).@*Conclusions@#The contrast-enhanced ultrasound-guided breast nodule biopsy can achieve high puncture success rate in patients with breast cancer with BI-RADS scores 4 lesions, and help to confirm lesion activity, necrotic liquefaction area, more accurate localization, improved material satisfaction rate and biopsy, diagnostic efficacy, with significant clinical value.

Radiology report: what is the opinion of the referring physician? / Laudo radiológico: qual a opinião do médico solicitante?

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the opinion and perception of referring physicians regarding the radiology report, in order to develop tools that promote an improvement in its quality. Materials and Methods: We prepared a questionnaire containing ten multiple choice questions about the radiology report, administering it to 70 physicians (35 specialists and 35 residents working in specialties other than radiology). Results: Referring physicians (specialists and residents) showed a preference for structured reports, with a description explained in universal medical language and a complete conclusion listing the diagnostic possibilities with the degree of certainty. The examination technique should be described, and the final report is best presented when it contains the final chart, together with images, as hard copies and in digital format. The respondents also reported having confidence in the opinion of the radiologist and expressed the need for a direct channel of communication with the same. Conclusion: Referring physicians seek detailed reports (including a description of the examination technique), preferably structured, with objective language and relevant conclusions (the position of the radiologist on the case is important). It is necessary to discuss the differential diagnoses and provide a form of contact between the parties. Although referring physicians consider the radiologist opinion relevant, they also want to analyze the images on their own.

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar a opinião e a percepção dos médicos solicitantes sobre o laudo radiológico e desenvolver ferramentas que promovam uma melhora de sua qualidade. Materiais e Métodos: Foi elaborado um questionário contendo dez questões de múltipla escolha acerca do laudo radiológico, o qual foi submetido a 35 médicos especialistas e 35 médicos residentes de outras especialidades. Resultados: Médicos referentes (especialistas e residentes) mostraram preferência por laudos estruturados, com uma descrição explicada em linguagem médica universal e conclusão completa contendo as possibilidades diagnósticas indicadas com probabilidade de certeza. A técnica do exame deve ser descrita e o relatório final é mais bem apresentado quando contém o laudo final associado a imagens impressas e em formato digital. Também foram relatadas a confiança na opinião do radiologista e a necessidade de um canal direto de comunicação com ele. Conclusão: Os médicos solicitantes buscam relatórios detalhados (inclusive com a descrição da técnica do exame), preferencialmente estruturados, com linguagem objetiva e conclusões pertinentes (o posicionamento do radiologista sobre o caso é importante). É necessário discutir os diagnósticos diferenciais e fornecer uma forma de contato entre as partes. Apesar de considerarem relevante a opinião do radiologista, eles também querem analisar as imagens por conta própria.

The function of the regional medical image network consultation system for quality control of regional medi-cal image / 中国基层医药

Objective To explore the function of the regional medical image network consultation system in propelling the quality control of regional medical image.Methods Based on the regional medical image network con-sultation system,the unified standard of quality control was implemented to reach the integrated management of the imaging quality control in region.The imaging specialists checked the quality of image and report in real time.In addi-tion,the specialists and inspectors monthly examined the quality of image and report.Subsequently,the unqualified causes were analyzed and the improvement measures were used.Finally,the quality of image and report were continu-ously improved.Results After the homogeneity management was applied for one year,the rates of remaking photos and returning the report were significantly decreased from 10% to 2%,and 12% to 4% respectively.Additionally,the rates of good image and report were significantly increased from 83% to 98%,and 89% to 100% respectively.The objective of good rate ≥90% was excellently achieved.Conclusion Based on the regional medical image network consultation system,the management in quality control of the networking hospitals has been uniform,and the technique of examination and the report format have been consistent.The standardability and accuracy of image examination have been realized.

Study on User Interface of Pathology Picture Archiving and Communication System / 대한의료정보학회지

OBJECTIVES: It is necessary to improve the pathology workflow. A workflow task analysis was performed using a pathology picture archiving and communication system (pathology PACS) in order to propose a user interface for the Pathology PACS considering user experience. METHODS: An interface analysis of the Pathology PACS in Seoul National University Hospital and a task analysis of the pathology workflow were performed by observing recorded video. Based on obtained results, a user interface for the Pathology PACS was proposed. RESULTS: Hierarchical task analysis of Pathology PACS was classified into 17 tasks including 1) pre-operation, 2) text, 3) images, 4) medical record viewer, 5) screen transition, 6) pathology identification number input, 7) admission date input, 8) diagnosis doctor, 9) diagnosis code, 10) diagnosis, 11) pathology identification number check box, 12) presence or absence of images, 13) search, 14) clear, 15) Excel save, 16) search results, and 17) re-search. And frequently used menu items were identified and schematized. CONCLUSIONS: A user interface for the Pathology PACS considering user experience could be proposed as a preliminary step, and this study may contribute to the development of medical information systems based on user experience and usability.

Construction and Standardization Research on Hospital Medical Imaging Data Center Based on Clinical Data Repository / 中国医学影像学杂志

Hospital image information system is evolving from department-oriented to patient-oriented. This paper introduces the implementation of Beijing University People's Hospital image data center. The ideas, approaches and the technological standards for image data center's system integration are proposed. Additionally, the problems in practical application and the outlook for this system are discussed.

Effect factors of diagnostic system efficiency as chest radiodiagnosis with soft-copy reading / 中华放射学杂志

Objective To investigate the effect factors and the relationship of diagnostic system efficiency as soft copy reading with medical LCD.MethodsThirty chest images were selected from PACS on-line.Three of high,mid and low-experienced radiologists interpreted the images on different types of displays independently.Design four display levels based on five factors influencing diagnostic system efficiency,including view distance (0.3 m,0.6 m,0.9 m,1.2 m),monitor resolution ( 1 MP,2 MP,3 MP,5 MP),illuminant level (50 Ix,100 Ix,200 lx,400 lx),view angle (0°,15°,30°,45°) and angle of negative effect light (0°,30°,60°,90°).Three indices of misdiagnosis frequency,diagnosis time and frequency of unable to recognize were analyzed.Orthogonal experimental design and software SPSS 13.0 were used to analyze the results.Results The indices were much different for different factors at different levels.According to the index of average misdiagnosis frequency,extreme difference value of view angle was the lowest (1.4) and angle of negative effect light was the highest (5.0).Extreme difference value of view distance,monitor resolution and illuminant level were 2.9,2.8 and 2.5,respectively.ConclusionsThe order of different factors influencing diagnostic system efficiency is as follows: angle of negative effect light,view distance,monitor resolution,illuminant level and view angle.

Uma metodologia para avaliação da usabilidade para sistema de transcrição automática de laudo em radiologia / An evaluation methodology for automatic transcription system of radiology reports / Una metodología para el sistema de evaluación de usabilidad de la transcripción automáticade informes de radiología

Este trabalho relaciona elementos das áreas de Computação e Saúde para comporem a elaboração de uma metodologia para avaliação de usabilidade de sistemas de transcrição automática de laudos na área de Radiologia. Esta metodologia é elaborada a partir de requisitos gerais de Voice User Interface e nas peculiaridades dos sistemas de transcrição automática de laudos, sendo, posteriormente, validada através de inspeções e testes de usabilidade, realizados fora do ambiente hospitalar, para, então, ser também aplicada a um hospital da cidade de São Paulo.

This work combines knowledge from Computer Science and Health Science in order to propose an evaluation methodology for Automatic Transcription Systems of Radiology Reports. This methodology was designed based on Voice User Interface requirements and specific requirements of automatic transcription systems of Radiology report. This methodology was previously validated through some inspections and usability tests outside the hospital environment and afterward the methodology was used in a hospital in São Paulo city.

Este trabajo enumera los elementos de las áreas de Informática y Salud, que conforman el desarrollo de una metodología para la evaluación de la usabilidad de los sistemas de transcripción automática de informes en el ámbito de la Radiología. Esta metodología se extrae de los requisitos generales de la interfaz de usuario de voz y las peculiaridades de los sistemas de transcripción automática de informes, y posteriormente validados por las inspecciones y las pruebas de usabilidad a cabo fuera del hospital, a continuación, también se aplicará a un hospital de São Paulo.

eHealth in Queensland: Progressing towards a Patient Centric, Networked Model of Care / 대한의료정보학회지

OBJECTIVES: Factors such as an ageing and rapidly growing population, an increase in chronic disease rates and a global shortage of health professionals place increased pressure on Australian health departments to deliver more with less. To address the challenge faced by clinicians and support staff, the Queensland Department of Health established an eHealth strategy in 2006 with a vision to deliver a patient centric, networked model of care. METHODS: Queensland Health's eHealth program is a complex program which brings together the outputs and products of numerous projects to provide new clinical capabilities across the state. To ensure the potential benefits of the Queensland Government investment are realised, the eHealth program is implementing comprehensive benefits management to plan for key outcomes and benefits, support projects to deliver those benefits and ensure that they are delivered through ongoing measurement. RESULTS: The first stage of the eHealth program is already delivering benefits across the health department with a number of projects currently live in numerous sites across Queensland. CONCLUSIONS: By adopting an evidence based benefits management approach, Queensland Health's eHealth program is able to demonstrate the achievement of these benefits with tangible evidence that will create momentum for change in the short term, provide the evidence for future funding applications in the medium term, and build an understanding of the economic impacts of eHealth in the long term.

Visualizadores de imagens médicas gratuitos: é possível trabalhar apenas com eles? / Freeware medical image viewers: can we rely only on them?

OBJETIVO: Pesquisar visualizadores de imagens médicas gratuitos disponíveis na internet capazes de funcionar como cliente PACS (picture archiving and communication system) e avaliar suas principais funções e a viabilidade do uso em computadores pessoais. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Foi feita pesquisa, no Google e em sites especializados, por programas gratuitos disponíveis para o Windows. Foram encontrados cerca de 70, sendo 11 capazes de funcionar como cliente PACS, e selecionados seis destes para análise: ClearCanvas Workstation, KPACS, Onis, Synedra View Personal, Mito e Tudor DicomViewer. Com base nas necessidades dos autores, 16 funções foram avaliadas. RESULTADOS: Dos seis programas avaliados, dois possuem 10 das 16 funções avaliadas e um possui apenas duas. Três realizam MPR (reconstrução multiplanar), um realiza MIP (reconstrução por projeção de intensidade máxima), dois realizam VR (renderizações volumétricas), dois funcionam como servidor PACS, dois geram CDs, um realiza fusão de imagens, três permitem utilizar múltiplos monitores e apenas um não é compatível com Windows 7. CONCLUSÃO: Diversos programas gratuitos estão disponíveis e não existe nenhum completo. Cabe ao usuário analisar e selecionar o programa que melhor se enquadra nas suas necessidades, porém, os programas Onis, Synedra e ClearCanvas se destacam, cada um com suas peculiaridades. É totalmente viável o uso de programas gratuitos para o dia-a-dia do radiologista.

OBJECTIVE: To search in the internet for freeware medical image viewers capable of running as a PACS (picture archiving and communication system) client, and to evaluate their main functions as well as the feasibility of their use in personal computers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The Google search engine and specialized sites were utilized in the search for freeware softwares for Windows. The authors have found about 70 and among them 11 were able to run as PACS clients. Six were selected for analysis: ClearCanvas Workstation, KPACS, Onis, Synedra View Personal, Mito and Tudor DicomViewer. Sixteen functions selected according to the authors' needs were evaluated. RESULTS: Among the six applications, two presented 10 of the 16 functions, and one of them presented only two. Three perform MPR (multiplanar reconstruction), one performs MIP (maximum intensity projection), two perform VR (volume rendering), two can run as a PACS server, two can create CDs, one performs images fusion, three allow the use of multiple monitors and only one is not compatible with Windows 7. CONCLUSION: Although several freeware applications are available, no one of them is complete. It is up to the users to analyze and select the software that best suits their needs. However, Onis, Synedra and ClearCanvas stand out because of their own peculiarities. The use of freeware image viewers is entirely feasible in the radiologists' daily routine.

Comparação dos tempos de geração e digitação de laudos radiológicos entre um sistema eletrônico baseado em voz sobre IP (VoIP) e um sistema tradicional baseado em papel / Comparison between the time required to generate and type radiology reports by means of VoIP-based system and a traditional paper-based system

OBJETIVO: Comparar os tempos de geração e digitação de laudos radiológicos entre um sistema eletrônico baseado na tecnologia de voz sobre o protocolo de internet (VoIP) e o sistema tradicional, em que o radiologista escreve o laudo à mão. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Foi necessário modelar, construir e implantar o sistema eletrônico proposto, capaz de gravar o laudo em formato de áudio digital, e compará-lo com o tradicional já existente. Por meio de formulários, radiologistas e digitadores anotaram os tempos de geração e digitação dos laudos nos dois sistemas. RESULTADOS: Comparadas as médias dos tempos entre os sistemas, o eletrônico apresentou redução de 20 por cento (p = 0,0410) do tempo médio de geração do laudo em comparação com o sistema tradicional. O tradicional foi mais eficiente em relação ao tempo de digitação, uma vez que a média de tempo do eletrônico foi três vezes maior (p < 0,0001). CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados mostraram diferença estatisticamente significante entre os sistemas comparados, sendo que o eletrônico foi mais eficiente do que o tradicional em relação ao tempo de geração dos laudos, porém, em relação ao tempo de digitação, o tradicional apresentou melhores resultados.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the time required for generation and typing of radiology reports by means of an electronic system based on the technology of voice over internet protocol (VoIP) and the traditional system, in which the report is handwritten by the radiologist. MATERIALS AND METHODS: It was necessary to model, build and deploy the proposed electronic system, capable of recording the reports in a digital audio format and comparing it with the traditional method. Radiologists and transcriptionists recorded the reports generation and typing times for both systems, using appropriate forms. RESULTS: When the mean times between both systems were compared, those from the electronic system presented a reduction of 20 percent (p = 0.0410) in the report generation time as compared with the traditional method. On the other hand, the traditional method was more efficient with respect to typing time, as the mean typing time with the electronic system was three times longer (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: The results demonstrated a statistically significant difference between the compared systems, with the electronic system being more efficient than the traditional one with respect to report generation time, while the traditional method presented better results with respect to typing time.

Integration and Evaluation of Clinical Decision Support Systems for Diagnosis Idopathics Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) / 대한의료정보학회지

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to develop clinical decision support systems (CDSS) that are integrated with hospital information systems for the differential diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). METHODS: The integrated CDSS were validated and evaluated by physicians. Knowledge modeling for diagnosing IPF was performed by knowledge working groups, composed of radiologists and respiratory specialists. In order to develop the model for CDSS diagnosis, the clinical cases were collected from 290 cases from Seoul National University Hospital and Sevrance Hospital of Yonsei University. For the evaluation of integrated CDSS, interviews were conducted with respiratory specialists and radiologist 2 weeks after applying CDSSs in clinical settings. The CDSS was integrated with the computer vision system (CVS) and diffuse parenchymal lung diseases (DPLD), CDSS developed in our previous project. RESULTS: Eighteen cases diagnosed as IPF were applied to the collection of diagnostic knowledge and the refined knowledge, the former diagnosed 1 case (6%) and the latter diagnosed 14 cases (78%). Therefore, the refined knowledge performed better than collected knowledge. The validation results of integrated CDSSs showed that 81 cases (74.3%) were diagnosed correctly. CONCLUSIONS: There were 109 cases of IPF diagnosed and initiated on treatment. The significance of this study is in developing integrated CDSS with PACS by acquiring and redefining the knowledge needed for IPF diagnosis. In addition, it is significant for the integration of CDSS to verification and clinical evaluation.

Application of the Extended Technology Acceptance Model to Picture Archiving and Communication Systems in Dental Hospitals / 대한의료정보학회지

OBJECTIVE: With the rapid growth of picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) in the healthcare industry, this article describes the users' satisfaction with PACS by employing functional PACS features and the two concepts of perceived ease-of-use (PEOU) and perceived usefulness (PU), based on the extended technology acceptance model (TAM). METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with dentists in 25 dental hospitals which were cluster sampled from the national registry of 132 dental hospitals. Of the 204 respondents (response rate 81.6%), the data of 159 PACS users were analyzed using the structural equation modeling method. RESULTS: The fitted model showed significant relations between the technical components and the TAM variables, via the following three significant paths: hardware to PEOU, and software to PEOU and also to PU. Moreover, the critical path of TAM variables was observed: PEOU-->PU-->SAT. Therefore, the model produced three significant routes: hardware-->PEOU-->PU-->SAT, software-->PU-->SAT, and software-->PEOU-->PU-->SAT. CONCLUSION: Contrary to expectations, the direct effect of PEOU on user satisfaction was not significant. The final model provided critical paths from technical components to user satisfaction, by utilizing PEOU and PU as intermediary, latent factors.

Quais as características propostas pelo BIRADS-US que melhor diferenciam nódulos malignos dos benignos? / What characteristics proposed by BIRADS ultrasound better distinguish between benign and malignant nodes?

OBJETIVO: analisar qual das características propostas pelo BIRADS-US tem maior impacto na diferenciação das lesões benignas das malignas. MÉTODOS: estudamos as características ultra-sonográficas do BIRADS em 384 nódulos submetidos à biópsia percutânea no período de fevereiro de 2003 a dezembro de 2006. Utilizou-se, para o exame, o aparelho Logic 5, com transdutor linear multifreqüencial de 7,5-12 MHz. A análise ultra-sonográfica do nódulo foi baseada no BIRADS-US levando em conta: forma, orientação, margem, limites da lesão, ecogenicidade, características acústicas posteriores, o tecido circunjacente e a presença de calcificações. Estes dados foram submetidos à análise estatística com modelo de regressão logística. Para o estudo de associação entre estas variáveis utilizamos o teste do c² e também calculamos a sensibilidade e a especificidade das variáveis "tecido ao redor", "calcificações", "efeito posterior", "limite da lesão" e "orientação". RESULTADOS: as lesões benignas representaram 42,4 por cento e as malignas, 57,6 por cento. A análise por regressão logística encontrou odds ratio (OR) aumentado para câncer de 7,7 vezes quando o tecido ao redor esteve alterado, de 6,2 vezes quando houve presença das microcalcificações no interior das lesões, de 1,9 quando o efeito acústico foi sombra, de 25,0 vezes quando houve o halo ecogênico e de 7,1 vezes quando a orientação foi não paralela. CONCLUSÕES: dentre as características estudadas, o limite da lesão, representado pela presença ou não do halo ecogênico, é o mais importante diferenciador das massas benignas das malignas.

PURPOSE: to analyze which characteristics proposed by the BIRADS lexicon for ultrasound have the greatest impact on distinguishing between benign and malignant lesions. METHODS: ultrasonography features from the third edition of the BIRADS were studied in 384 nodes submitted to percutaneous biopsy from February 2003 to December 2006, at the Medical School of Botucatu. For the ultrasonography, the equipment Logic 5 with a 7.5-12 MHz multifrequential linear transducer was used. The ultrasonography analysis of the node considered the features proposed by the BIRADS lexicon for ultrasound. The data were submitted to statistical analysis by the logistic regression model. RESULTS: the benign lesions represented 42.4 percent and the malignant, 57.6 percent. The logistic regression analysis found an odds ratio (OR) for cancer of 7.69 times when the surrounding tissue was altered, of 6.25 times when there were microcalcifications in the lesions interior, of 1.95 when the acoustic effect is shadowing, of 25.0 times when there was the echogenic halo, and of 7.14 times when the orientation was non-parallel. CONCLUSIONS: among the features studied, the lesion limit, represented by the presence or not of the halogenic halo, is the most important differentiator of the benign from the malignant masses.

Design and optimizing factors of PACS network architecture / 中华放射学杂志

Objective Exploring the design and optimizing factors of picture archiving and communication system (PACS) network architecture. Methods Based on the PACS of shanghai first hospital to performed the measurements and tests on the requirements of network bandwidth and transmitting rate for different PACS functions and procedures respectively in static and dynamic network traffic situation, utilizing the network monitoring tools which built in workstations and provided by Windows NT. Results No obvious difference between switch equipment and HUB when measurements and tests implemented in static situation except router which slow down the rate markedly. In dynamic environment Switch is able to provide higher bandwidth utilizing than HUB and local system scope communication achieved faster transmitting rate than global system. Conclusion The primary optimizing factors of PACS network architecture design include concise network topology and disassemble tremendous global traffic to multiple distributed local scope network communication to reduce the traffic of network backbone. The most important issue is guarantee essential bandwidth for diagnosis procedure of medical imaging.