Clinical assessment of Hokkaido University PACS.

The paper describes the hardware and software used in the Hokkaido University picture archiving and communication system (HUPACS), which has been in use for the past two years. An evaluation of the system is also included. Fuji computed radiography completely replaces conventional X-ray radiographs, and 10:1 data compression is routinely employed. The PACS LAN is connected to the hospital information system through the main-frame computer and it is linked, not only to the radiology department, but also to the outpatient clinics. Image data have been steadily stored in the optical disc library, which contains more than 200,000 images. The original image can be accessed within 1 min. Image quality on a cathode ray tube (CRT) is clinically acceptable. Nevertheless, the transfer time of a newly made image is prolonged in some cases, during periods of heavy usage of the system. During scheduled radiology conferences, image reading tends to take more time on a CRT than on film. An improvement in the ease of operation of the workstations is necessary for full acceptance of CRT diagnoses. Generally speaking, however, HUPACS is working well and is appreciated by most of the clinicians.