The RETAIN project: dicom teleradiology over an ATM-based network

The RETAIN project (Radiological Examinations Transfer on an ATM Integrated Network) has aimed at testing videoconferencing and DICOM image transfers to get advice about difficult radiological cases over an asynchronous trans fer mode (ATM)-based network, which affords a more comfortable interface th an narrow-band networks and allows exchange of complete image series using the DICOM format of studies, For this purpose, an experimental ATM network was applied between six university hospitals in four different countries. A n assessment of the functionalities of the system was performed by means of log-file analysis, video recording of the sessions and forms filled out by the participants at the end of each session. Questionnaires were answered by the users at the end of the project to bring out perspectives of utilisa tion and added value, We discussed 43 cases during 20 sessions. For technic al or organisational problems, only 20 of the 36 planned sessions took plac e. The throughput over ATM (10.5 Mbit/s, 20 times faster than six ISDN B-ch annels) was adequate. Despite the experimental configuration of the network , the system was considered as satisfactory by all the physicians. In 72 % of the sessions, the expected result (answer to the question) was gained. B y common consent, videoconferencing was unanimously regarded as a prominent tool in improving the interaction quality. Asynchronous transfer mode is a n efficient method for fast transferring of radiologic examinations in DICO M format and for discussing them through high-quality videoconferencing.