April

Did you know that being “DICOM-compatible” can have 150 different meanings?

“DICOM-compatible” systems (such as EHR, image management systems, PACS, etc.) seem to be flooding the market these days, but what exactly makes a system “DICOM-compatible”?

A system is considered “DICOM-compatible” if it supports at least one (1) DICOM transaction, meaning it can exchange at least one type of image or data with an imaging instrument. However, there are over 150 DICOM transactions that are specific to the various types of medical images. Images produced by different instruments (e.g. MRI, CT, ultrasound, OCT) are exchanged via different DICOM transactions.

Therefore, it is not enough for a system to be just “DICOM-compatible”. The system must provide compatibility that is specific to your instrument and images. Make sure to ask your system vendor.

CLICK HERE for a list of questions you can ask to ensure a system is DICOM-compatible with your SPECTRALIS^®.