Teleradiology is the electronic transmission of radiologic images from one location to another for interpretation and/or consultation. Teleradiology may allow more timely interpretation of radiologic images and give greater access to secondary consultations and to improved continuing education. Teleradiology is not appropriate if the available teleradiology system does not provide images of sufficient quality to perform the indicated task. When a teleradiology system is used to render the official interpretation,1 there should not be a clinically significant loss of data from image acquisition through transmission to final image display. For transmission of images for display use only, the image quality should be sufficient to satisfy the needs of the clinical circumstance.



For more than 100 years, radiographic film has been the primary tool for capturing and interpreting disease processes. New techniques and modalities over the past several decades have increasingly embraced digital imaging, including ultrasound, digital angiography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance, and Computed Radiography systems which is a natural evolution to digital-based image management has become compelling. The concept of the picture archiving and communications system (PACS) encompasses this logical extension. Furthering the PACS concept is Teleradiology, where the access to images can be provided using web based applications, thus enabling provision of diagnostic services from anywhere.

Teleradiology implementation involves careful selection, planning, implementation, training and maintenance to ensure that the transition is smooth & positive one so that the solution improves both the quality and speed of patient care.

Teleradiology can be used in many scenarios :

A specialist, if equipped with digital acquisition devices for X-ray images, can provide consultation to a remote location. This can include a review of medical data and images as well as direct interaction with the patient. A teleradiology system can be used to let surgeons review pre - and postoperative radiographs of patients without the need to see their patients. Also, it allows primary-care physicians to assemble patient data, including radiographs, for presentation to specialists via videoconferencing, avoiding unnecessary travel for the patient and speeding therapy. Other applications include second-opinion services and the easy brokering of X-ray services, achieving economics in organizing diagnostic interpretations and reduced costs through competition to provide services.