290. Development of software for monitoring radiation dose and integrating information across multiple information systems

Abstract

Purpose In the last few years RDIM software systems are becoming available but they have some limitations: weak integration with HIS and need for equipments to use DICOM Modality Worklist (MWL) service. Aim of this work is to develop in-house RDIM software tailored to the specific needs of our institution, allowing information integration from heterogeneous sources. Methods The software design is based on modular architecture: import module reads DICOM RDSR files, received directly from both XA and CT modalities, and populates a relational database; data manipulation module allows to estimate dose index. The information provided by file DICOM RDSR is integrated with other information residing in Hospital Information Systems such as RIS or ADT (Admission Discharge Transfer). Two different methods of data integration are implemented depending on whether the MWL service is supported by the radiologic equipment. If a device uses this service, the software communicates with RIS to obtain extra information of procedure (persons participating, details of the activity performed). If a device does not use this service the software communicates with ADT to get patient record and details of the activity performed, then synchronizes patient data. Moreover the software can estimate organ dose using the API provided by VirtualDose® system and can estimate PSD using in-house application developed in Matlab® (fig.1) taking into account geometric and dose parameters provided by the DICOM RDSR. Results Two devices are connected: an angiography and a CT. The angiography does not use MWL and its RDSR information is integrated with patient data and International Classification of Diseases codes provided by ADT. Whereas the CT scanner uses MWL and its RDSR data are integrated with information about persons participating and exam codes provided by RIS. Conclusions The software accomplishes the integration of information from heterogeneous sources and allows to create a database which is not simple dose registry but procedure archive including dosimetric information and performed procedure details provided by ADT and RIS. Download : Download high-res image (103KB) Download : Download full-size image