System and method for performing remote radiological examinations

Abstract

The present invention discloses a system and method for enabling the planning and conduct of patient examinations by an imaging modality, where a remotely located technician plans and conducts at least part of the examination protocol. A local facility may have an imaging modality such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) equipment, and a portion of the preparation for, and conduct of, the data acquisition may be performed by a local technician. The remotely located technician may control one or more of the data acquisition parameters, the timing of the administering of contrast agents, and the modification of values of data acquisition parameters during the course of the image data acquisition by the imaging modality.

Description

technical field [0001] The present application relates to systems and methods for performing radiology examinations. Background technique [0002] In some countries, there is a shortage of qualified personnel to perform radiology examinations. This can lead to high payroll costs and underutilization of expensive diagnostic equipment, especially when there are not enough personnel to cover shifts. This becomes a significant problem when using imaging modalities such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computed Tomography (CT) that require a high level of expertise or training of personnel to properly configure the equipment and interpret the results. In other regions, countries, or times of day, properly trained personnel may be far better deployed. [0003] Another problem is that certain types of imaging studies are not often performed on a single device. Especially in a small facility or facility with a limited number of patients, it is not efficient to train and mai...

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