Modern imaging studies, such as computed tomography (CT) and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), are essential components of medical diagnostics. The images obtained from these tests allow for an accurate assessment of a patient’s condition and help plan treatment. However, storing, analyzing, and reading these medical images require saving the pictures in an appropriate format. Currently, the standard for recording diagnostic images is the DICOM format. What is it, and how can you open a tomography CD?
What Is the DICOM Format?
DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) is a universal standard for storing, transmitting, and archiving medical images along with their associated data. Medical DICOM files contain both images and other information about the examination and the patient, including personal data, equipment parameters, and technical settings of the study.
The DICOM format is designed to facilitate data exchange between different medical systems and devices. This allows physicians to use diagnostic images regardless of where they were taken. This is particularly important in complex processes that require collaboration among multiple specialists from different facilities.
Why Are 2D and 3D Medical Images Saved in DICOM Format?
The main reason why the DICOM format is widely used for recording diagnostic images is because it is compatible with different devices and IT systems — regardless of the equipment manufacturer. Whether the image was taken on a CT scanner, MRI machine, or CBCT device, the file can be opened on any computer equipped with appropriate software. Additionally, this format is an international standard used worldwide, enabling specialists to share studies without worrying about system incompatibility.
Another important aspect is that DICOM files contain a complete set of data related to the examination, essential for accurate analysis. This allows for precise tracking of a patient’s examination history. At the same time, the format supports the security and confidentiality of medical data. The ability to encrypt and password-protect files is crucial in the context of personal data protection.
It’s also significant that the DICOM format supports both two-dimensional and three-dimensional images. This makes it ideal for storing and reading 2D and 3D studies like CT, CBCT, or MRI, where imaging data are particularly complex.
How to Read DICOM Files on a Computer?
The DICOM format is commonly used in medical facilities. However, it’s important to note that these files are not natively supported by standard software available on computers at home. To read tomography studies, you need to download appropriate software. There are various 3D and 2D image viewers available on the market, both free and paid, that allow you to open DICOM files and analyze them.
RadiAnt DICOM Viewer
RadiAnt is intuitive software that allows viewing two-dimensional and three-dimensional images saved in DICOM format. The program is available for Windows devices in both free and paid versions with additional features. It enables viewing image cross-sections and creating three-dimensional reconstructions. It’s particularly useful for otolaryngologists and maxillofacial surgeons.
MicroDicom
MicroDicom is free software for viewing DICOM files, valued by users for its simplicity and functionality. It allows users to view images, perform measurements, and convert files to more popular formats like JPEG or PNG. The program is available for Windows devices.
OsiriX
OsiriX is one of the most commonly used tools for viewing and analyzing files, allowing you to open DICOM format on MacOS systems. This program is equipped with a range of advanced features, such as viewing images in high resolution, creating 3D reconstructions, and the ability to integrate with other medical systems. It’s available in both free and paid versions for professionals.
Horos
Horos is free, open-source software popular among MacOS users. It offers similar functions to OsiriX, including advanced image analysis and the ability to integrate with PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) servers.
CS 3D Viewer
CS 3D Viewer is a program designed for viewing imaging studies in 3D format. It supports various file types, enabling the viewing of studies like CT scans or MRI, and allows for detailed analysis of anatomical structures. With interactive features such as manipulating images in three dimensions, it facilitates understanding the patient’s anatomy. Its intuitive user interface makes the software easy to use, even for less experienced specialists. This is also the software from the manufacturer of the tomograph used at Skanai.
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Jak odczytać plik DICOM?
The exact method of opening a DICOM file depends on the program you choose to use. However, a basic guide to opening a tomography study from a CD is as follows:
Download Software: Choose one of the above programs and install it on your computer. You can download them from the manufacturer’s website or from the Skanai website (available for download).
Open the File: After launching the program, use the “Open File” option to load the images. You can open both the tomography CD and a file downloaded from the diagnostic center’s server.
View Images: After loading the file, you can view the images using the tools offered by the program. In the case of CT and CBCT, you can navigate between different layers of the study. If the study contains 3D images, the program will allow you to view them from various perspectives.
Analysis and Measurements: Most programs offer tools for measuring and analyzing images, which can be useful for both patients and specialists. This allows the attending physician to accurately assess the study results and discuss them with the patient.
The DICOM format is a standard in imaging diagnostics, enabling the storage, transmission, and analysis of images from various studies. Thanks to its universality, it’s widely used by specialists from different fields. Appropriate software allows you to read DICOM files on computers with Windows and MacOS systems, facilitating consultations between doctors from different facilities.