Digital still image recording during video endoscopy

Enterprise imaging and multi-departmental PACS

The aim of this review is to present the status of digital image acquisition and archiving outside of radiology and to describe the technical concepts and possibilities of how a "radiology" Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) can become a multi-departmental (MD-)PACS. First the principles of system integration technology are explained and illustrated by the description of a typical radiology system integration. Then four types of modality integration approaches are defined: the direct modality integration (Type-I), the integration via DICOM acquisition software (Type-II) the integration via specialised systems either with (Type-III) or without PACS connection (Type-IV). The last section is dedicated to the presentation of the PACS requirements of selected interdisciplinary modality types [Endoscopy, Ultrasound and Electrocardiography (ECG)] and clinical disciplines (Pathology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology and Cardiology), which are then compared with the technical possibilities of a MD-PACS.

A Simple Way to Take Pictures During Endoscopic Procedures

PURPOSE

We describe a new method of taking pictures from endoscopic images using a digital photo camera coupled to the endoscopic lens without an adapter.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We used a digital camera with 3.3 megapixel resolution and 6 x optical zoom. The camera was coupled to the endoscopic lens with no special adapter. The image was accompanied through the LCD (liquid crystal display) visor, and the picture was taken with the flash button on and with no macro resource. The image was then enlarged by optical and digital zoom before being easily stored in photo files at the personal computer.

RESULTS

The quality of the photos obtained by this method was at least similar to that of traditional photos, and the data were promptly stored.

CONCLUSIONS

We describe a simple method of taking pictures from endoscopic images with the additional advantage of a facility to edit and store the photographs.

Theory and applications of telemedicine

In this study, telemedicine and the use of advanced telemedicine technologies are explained. Telemedicine is the use of modern telecommunications and information technologies for the provision of clinical care to individuals at a distance, and transmission of information to provide that care. Telemedicine can be used for decision making, remote sensing, and collaborative arrangements for the real-time management of patients at a distance. The use of telecommunications and information technologies in providing health services is determined. Telemedicine is described as combination of topics from the fields of telecommunication, medicine, and informatics. The medical systems infrastructure consisting of the equipment and processes used to acquire and present clinical information and to store and retrieve data are explained in details. The challenges existing in telemedicine development in different countries are given. Technological, political, and professional barriers in applications of telemedicine are defined. An investigation of telemedicine applications in various fields is presented, and enormous impact of telemedicine systems on the future of medicine is determined.

Advances in camera, video, and imaging technologies in laparoscopy

The introduction of technological advances, such as HDTV, three-dimensional laparoscopy, and further miniaturization of high-resolution digital video cameras, will allow significantly enhanced opportunities for laparoscopic surgical proficiency and further broadening of laparoscopic applications in urology. These enhancements, coupled with the recent advances in telemedicine and surgical simulation, will improve laparoscopic training and skill acquisition, decrease operative times and costs, minimize morbidity, and improve overall patient care.

Current urologic applications of digital imaging

One of the most significant developments in imaging technology has been the process of digitalization. By incorporating currently available digital imaging equipment into surgical practice, urologists can be assured of obtaining real-time video images with optimal clarity and detail. In addition, one can efficiently capture and store still images that are crisper and sharper than their analog counterparts. These factors greatly improve the diagnostic capabilities and organization of today's endourologist.