Developing a medical image content repository for e-learning

J Digit Imaging. 2006 Sep;19(3):207-15. doi: 10.1007/s10278-006-0588-6.

Abstract

The integration of medical informatics and e-learning systems could provide many advanced applications including training, knowledge management, telemedicine, etc. Currently, both the domains of e-learning and medical image have sophisticated specifications and standards. It is a great challenge to bring about integration. In this paper, we describe the development of a Web interface for searching and viewing medical images that are stored in standard medical image servers. With the creation of a Web solution, we have reduced the overheads of integration. We have packaged Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) network services as a component that can be used via a Web server. The Web server constitutes a content repository for searching, editing, and storing Web-based medical image content. This is a simple method by which the use of Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) can be extended. We show that the content repository can easily interact and integrate with a learning system. With the integration, the user can easily generate and assign medical image content for e-learning. A Web solution might be the simplest way for system integration. The demonstration in this paper should be useful as a method of expanding the usage of medical information. The construction of a Web-based repository and integrated with a learning system may be also applicable to other domains.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Computer Security
  • Computer Storage Devices
  • Curriculum
  • Database Management Systems
  • Diagnostic Imaging*
  • Education, Medical
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted
  • Information Storage and Retrieval
  • Internet*
  • Learning*
  • Medical Records Systems, Computerized
  • Programming Languages
  • Radiology Information Systems
  • Software Design
  • Systems Integration
  • User-Computer Interface