DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) is a standard for storing, transmitting, and viewing medical images. It enables the exchange of information between different medical devices and systems, such as X-ray machines, CT scanners, MRIs, and PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication Systems). 

What is DICOM and How does it function?

DICOM uses a file format that stores all of the necessary data about an image, including its header information, pixels, and any additional related information. This file format is then transmitted between devices, such as computers, scanners, and printers.

DICOM files can be stored on a variety of different storage media, including CD-ROMs, DVDs, and hard drives. DICOM files can also be transmitted over the internet or other networks.

DICOM is used by healthcare professionals around the world to store, view, and share medical images. It is also used by research institutions and pharmaceutical companies to store and share images for clinical trials and other research purposes.

DICOM uses both public and private tags to identify different types of information in a DICOM file. 

• Public tags are defined by the DICOM standard and identify common information such as patient name and ID, study date, modality, and manufacturer.
• Private tags are not defined by the DICOM standard and can be created by any organization. Private tags allow for custom information to be stored in a DICOM file, such as physician notes or anatomy measurements.

How does DICOM Function?

DICOM files can be stored on a computer, transmitted over a network, or printed on film. They can be viewed on a computer screen or a medical imaging device such as a CT scanner or MRI machine. DICOM files have a number of features that make them ideal for storing and transmitting medical images and associated data. 

Some of these features include:

Header

DICOM files contain a header that includes information about the patient, the imaging modality, and the image itself. The header is followed by the image data. The header can be used to determine how the image should be displayed, such as its orientation and window level.

PACS

DICOM images are typically stored in a PACS (picture archiving and communication system). PACS are used by hospitals and other healthcare facilities to store, manage, and transmit medical images. DICOM files can also be stored on removable media such as CDs and DVDs.

File formats such as JPEG and TIFF

DICOM files can be converted to other file formats such as JPEG and TIFF. They can also be exported to HTML, XML, or PDF. DICOM files can be viewed on a computer screen or printed on film.

DICOM viewer

DICOM images can be viewed using special software called a DICOM viewer. Many commercial and free DICOM viewers are available. Some medical imaging devices, such as CT scanners and MRI machines, also have DICOM viewing capabilities.

DICOM networking

DICOM files can be shared over a network using DICOM networking. DICOM networking allows images to be transmitted from one PACS to another PACS or from a PACS to a DICOM viewer. DICOM files can also be transmitted over the internet using DICOM web services.

Encryption

DICOM files can be encrypted for security. Encryption is often used when transmitting images over a network. DICOM files can also be compressed to save space. Compression is often used when storing images on removable media such as CDs and DVDs.

DICOM software

DICOM files can be manipulated using DICOM software. DICOM software can be used to view, edit, and convert DICOM files. DICOM software can also be used to create 3D images and animations from 2D images.

Read Also: Future of Digital Transformation in Healthcare

How is DICOM Beneficial for the Healthcare sector?

DICOM is an important standard for the healthcare sector because it provides a way to store, send, and receive medical images and information. DICOM enables the interoperability of medical devices and software from different manufacturers. This standards-based approach reduces errors, improves efficiency, and enhances patient care.

Some of the benefits of DICOM in the healthcare sector include:

Reduced errors and improved efficiency: 

DICOM provides a standardized way to store, send, and receive medical images and information. This reduces errors and improves efficiency by eliminating the need for manual data entry.

Enhanced patient care: 

DICOM enables the interoperability of medical devices and software from different manufacturers. This standards-based approach enhances patient care by providing a consistent experience across all devices and software.

Improved decision making: 

DICOM provides clinicians with access to more accurate and complete information. This improved data quality enhances decision making and leads to better patient outcomes.

What is the future of DICOM?

The future of DICOM is promising. The standard is continuously being updated to keep up with the latest advances in medical technology. Additionally, more and more manufacturers are beginning to support the DICOM standard. This will improve the interoperability of devices and software and enhance patient care.

Overall, DICOM has been shown to be a valuable tool for the healthcare sector. It promotes interoperability, standardization, and security while also facilitating innovation. This makes it an essential part of the modern healthcare landscape.

Need DICOM Services? Connect to Top Healthcare IT Professionals

QSS Technosoft Inc. is a leading provider of DICOM pacs software development services. We have a team of experienced and certified professionals who can help you with all aspects of DICOM implementation, from design to deployment. We also offer a range of DICOM products and services, including:

• DICOM software development
• DICOM hardware development
• DICOM consulting
• DICOM training
• DICOM support

If you are looking for a partner to help you with your DICOM needs, then QSS Technosoft Inc. is a perfect choice. We can provide you with the expertise, products, and services you need to succeed.

We are proud to mention that our work has been recognized by leading B2B reviews and research platforms like GoodFirms, Clutch, MirrorView, and many more.

Contact us today to learn more about what we can do for you.