A RIS/PACS Simulator with Web-based Image Distribution and Display System for Education

摘要

As PACS and related imaging technologies become more common in the healthcare setting, better methods are needed for training radiologists, allied healthcare and IT providers to understand and use them effectively. We presented a PACS Simulator in 2002 and a RIS integrated PACS Simulator in 2003. In this presentation we integrate a web-based image distribution and display system with the Simulator to complete the simulation of clinical PACS workflow. The Simulator consists of RIS Simulator, modality Simulator, DICOM gateway, PACS controller, clinical viewing workstations, PACS monitor system and a web server. The addition web server distributes images to browser-based display clients for display and manipulation using web technology. Using this Simulator, trainees can: 1. Observe RIS/PACS operation with web image distribution, component by component, 2. Trace image data flow through each component, 3. Query, retrieve and review images at web display clients, 4. Induce failure in a component to observe its impact on the entire RIS/PACS operation. The Simulator has been developed as a stand-alone tool for trainees to understand RIS/PACS concept and appreciate RIS/PACS workflow with hands-on experience. The Simulator has been applied in many training classes, and the addition of web server will significantly improve its training value.