DECISION AIDS IN RADIOLOGY

Computer systems can help radiologists decide which tests to perform a nd which diagnoses to consider. Repositories of clinical data and gene ral medical knowledge can provide information on demand for decisionma king tasks; many of these information resources are available remotely via the Internet. Decision support systems can incorporate the techni ques of artificial intelligence to apply their general knowledge to th e features of a particular patient. Successful use of these technologi es requires careful attention to design, implementation, and rigorous evaluation. Computer-based decision aids can improve the cost effectiv eness and diagnostic accuracy of radiologic practice and are poised to play an important role in the future of radiology.