Data-base management system on a CT scanner computer: application to teaching file and procedure records.

A prototype relational data-base management system was installed on computed tomographic (CT) scanner computers at two hospitals. This was used to create computerized indices for a teaching file and a record of CT procedures. Several problems commonly encountered when maintaining and using a radiologic teaching file were solved. Interesting cases were easily retrieved for teaching, conferences, or publication because the system permits rapid search on the basis of patient name, identification number, date, diagnosis, special description, or a combination of these data. The procedure record index contains these data as well as administrative and technical data on all CT examinations. These data are entered into the data base semiautomatically. The result is an extensive set of records that is easily accessible and requires a minimum of manpower to maintain.