Advanced technology
Barts and The London Digital Imaging centre has provided state-of-the-art services and used breakthrough technologies since the discovery of the x-ray.
Digital imaging
In 2006, we introduced digital imaging with the launch of a new system called the Picture Archiving and Communications System (PACS). This has transformed the way we capture, store and display radiographic images.
This innovative technology enables x-rays and scans to be stored electronically and viewed on a computer monitor rather than on a lightbox, helping to improve both the quality and speed of your treatment.
What's different?
Your x-ray and scan will be taken by the radiographer (a person who specialises in taking x-rays) in the usual way. The difference will be that instead of being printed out on film the image will be stored centrally on a computer.
The image will be viewed by a specialist doctor (radiologist) either on a special workstation or a computer monitor. The radiologist will then write a report and send it electronically to the doctor who referred you. There will no longer be any packets of x-rays to be returned to your doctor.
Will I receive my results quicker?
Your digital images will be available much more quickly because they do not have to be transported by hand. Until recently hospital doctors sometimes had to wait for a number of days to receive medical images. With PACS, doctors have access almost immediately to x-rays and scans that have been taken.
Reports from radiologists are also available to hospital doctors alongside the image in a matter of hours. This all helps to speed up the time for you to discuss your results with your doctor and any treatment that is necessary.
Will other doctors be able to view my digital x-rays and scans?
Your doctor at the hospital may want to get the view of another expert about your x-ray or scan. Using the PACS system both doctors will be able to view the images and discuss your case simultaneously wherever they are, even if they are in different parts of the hospital. This can lead to improved diagnosis and better care.
Can doctors refer back to previous digital x-rays and scans?
Your images are held securely on the Trust’s computer network so that that they can be readily available for comparison to previous or subsequent images quickly and easily. All types of images can be compared, for example, an x-ray can be viewed alongside a CT scan to give a fuller picture of a patient’s condition. As the images are held electronically, they will also not get lost or misplaced as happened with packets of film from time to time.
Will the images be sent to my GP?
Your GP will receive a report from the radiologist but will not be able to access digital images. In time these images will be available electronically to GPs and other doctors throughout the NHS as part of your NHS care record.
Who has access to my digital x-rays and scans?
Access to your digital images is strictly controlled. Anyone wanting to look at your digital x-ray or scan must be involved in your care and be able to view the images on the Trust’s computer network. What they will be able to see depends on their role. For example, a consultant will be able to look at your digital images but a receptionist will not be able to see them.
For more information about PACS visit the NHS Connecting for health website.
Patients can also request for their images to be sent to them on a CD by contacting the relevant department at the Trust.
