Patient Data Synchronization Between PACS and CAD Applications
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrating computer-aided detection (CAD) systems with picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) in a distributed environment is challenging, especially when long-term storage of CAD information is not required, and existing solutions either store sensitive data on PACS or require users to navigate between applications.
Innovation Solution
A method for synchronizing patient data between independent applications by capturing and analyzing screen information from a PACS display to extract patient identification, using techniques like pixel array matching and optical character recognition, and transmitting this information to a CAD web server for synchronized display without storing CAD information on PACS.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If CAD information is stored in the PACS database for long-term archiving, then data availability and integration are improved, but data security and storage requirements are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a trigger response unit as an intermediary component that sits between the PACS system and the CAD application. This mediator captures trigger information from images, launches the CAD application, and transmits results back without storing CAD data in the PACS database, thus maintaining data availability while protecting data security
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts CAD information processing from the PACS database storage system and places it in a separate CAD application. The trigger response unit extracts only the necessary trigger information from images to launch CAD, while the CAD results are viewed externally without being stored in PACS, separating storage responsibilities
2Extent of automation
If a trigger response unit is installed to launch CAD applications, then automated CAD processing is improved, but system complexity and installation requirements are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger response unit is designed to perform multiple functions: capturing trigger information from images, determining whether CAD should be launched, launching the CAD application, and transmitting results back to PACS. This multi-functional design reduces the need for separate components for each function
3Object-affected harmful factors
If users navigate to a separate web page on the CAD server to view results, then data security is improved, but user convenience and operational efficiency are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the CAD result display functionality with the existing PACS workstation interface. The trigger response unit transmits CAD results back to the PACS system where they are displayed within the same application window that the user is already using, combining security benefits with user convenience
Data Source
AI summary
A method for synchronizing patient data between at least two independent applications in a distributed environment includes capturing screen information from a display window of a first application client that is displaying a medical image of a patient, analyzing the screen information captured from the first application client display to extract patient identifying information, and synchronizing a display of information of the patient on a second application system display screen with the first application display window using the extracted patient identification information.