Evaluation of a Novel Teleradiology Technology for Image-Based Distant Consultations: Applications in Neurosurgery

Abstract

In emergency settings, fast access to medical imaging for diagnostic is pivotal for clinical decision making. Hence, a need has emerged for solutions that allow rapid access to images on small mobile devices (SMD) without local data storage. Our objective was to evaluate access times to full quality anonymized DICOM datasets, comparing standard access through an authorized hospital computer (AHC) to a zero-footprint teleradiology technology (ZTT) used on a personal computer (PC) or SMD using national and international networks at a regional neurosurgical center. Image datasets were sent to a senior neurosurgeon, outside the hospital network using either an AHC and a VPN connection or a ZTT (Image Over Globe (IOG)), on a PC or an SMD. Time to access DICOM images was measured using both solutions. The mean time using AHC and VPN was 250 ± 10 s (median 249 s (233–274)) while the same procedure using IOG took 50 ± 8 s (median 49 s (42–60)) on a PC and 47 ± 20 s (median 39 (33–88)) on a SMD. Similarly, an international consultation was performed requiring 23 ± 5 s (median 21 (16–33)) and 27 ± 1 s (median 27 (25–29)) for PC and SMD respectively. IOG is a secure, rapid and easy to use telemedicine technology facilitating efficient clinical decision making and remote consultations.

Potential of use of modern information technology solutions in the work of hospital infection control team, including antibiotic therapy optimisation, reduction of alert pathogen infections and vaccination popularisation

“…Consultation of persons suspected of infection or infectious disease or those diagnosed with infection or infectious disease may be based on the results of tests available remotely [11] and can take place, particularly in large hospitals with a dispersed structure or between branches [61], especially in the initial phase, with the use of teleconferences or teleconsultations, supported by the hospital it system, securely transmitted between medical data units, as it is already practiced by multiple medical specialties [62][63][64] -which is conducive to the speed of response to the occurring circumstances and changes in the epidemiological situation [41].…”

Usability of Mobile Solutions Intended for Diagnostic Images—A Systematic Review

“…Some studies report effective use of applications in order to improve diagnostic and decision-making processes, for instance in the conditions of the operating theatre [ 8 ]. Cewe et al also showed that the necessary time to conduct a remote radiological consultation with the use of mobile devices compared to traditional description stations using the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) is much shorter [ 9 ].…”