Central Medical Image Storage Respository

This invention outlines the establishment of a central digital medical image repository that can be used by multiple institutions within a region or multi-site radiological imaging network. The invention streamlines and reduces the cost of imaging storage and retrieval when compared to traditional transfer of images to silver halide film for interpretation.

Benefits
The development of PACS (picture archiving and communication systems) has begun to eliminate the need to produce conventional film copies of exams. Nearly all medical imaging equipment now provides digital output. Consequently, many advanced medical centers are now interpreting exams on high-resolution computer monitors and are using media other than film to store the digital information. Presently, these systems require large amounts of costly computer storage capacity and technical support. Such capital-expenditure requirements preclude smaller hospitals and clinics from utilizing these advanced technologies.

This invention makes a central medical image storage repository more cost effective for imaging centers and departments. Facilities pay only for the amount of digital storage and access time that they need.

Stage of Development
This technology is part of an active and ongoing research program. The University of Utah is seeking partners for development, manufacturing, or sales of the working product. It is available for developmental research support and licensing under either exclusive or non-exclusive terms.

Additional Info
*Lawrence P. Preparing a cultural strategy for PACS. Radiology Management 27(1):
21-6; quiz 27-9(2005).
*Bellon E, Feron M et al. Integrating images into a central medical information system. Studies in Health and Technology Informatics 93:53-60(2002).

Inventor(s): William Orrison

Type of Offer: Licensing



« More Medical Patents

---