The use of soft copy to enhance the interpretation of hard copy digital images

The Department of Radiology at Brooke Army Medical Center conducted a prospective comparison analysis of the utility of soft copy versus hard copy interpretation. We digitally acquired 218 examinations, storing the information on an optical drive. The acquired images were printed on film for initial hard copy interpretation. In those instances where we felt that additional clarification was warranted we accessed the entire data set on the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS). The comparison analysis involved a total of 218 radiographic examinations. On 93 studies, (43% of the total) we determined that final radiological disposition required further radiological. Further evaluation by accessing and manually manipulating the data on the computer monitor occurred. Upon reviewing the data we found that in 37% of the 93 cases, soft copy access allowed us to come to a conclusion without additional imaging.