MULTIMEDIA IMAGE DISPLAY - A VIEW TO THE FUTURE

The development of multimedia image review stations offers the cardiol ogist the ability to review multiple image sets in a single setting ra ther than moving from one review station to another. To accomplish thi s goal there are three essential barriers: 1) memory requirements for digital images; 2) standardization of data format; and 3) practical us er interfaces. Image compression algorithms can be used to overcome th e digital barrier; however, these must be used cautiously so as to not adversely affect image quality. The lack of standardization is being addressed by the implementation of the Digitial Communication in Medic ine (DICOM) standard, and practical user interfaces are being develope d every day with the widespread implementation of World Wide Web techn ology. These solutions will allow the clinician to review all of a pat ient's image data in one location, such as in the office, on the nursi ng unit, or at home.