From JPEG to PNG, PDF, and MP3, you’ll find many formats out there. As these formats can ring a bell, many people get caught by DICOM and PACS. They’re looking for the details and difference between DICOM and PACS these two things as these twos are somewhat new on the internet.
If we break the term ‘DICOM,’ we’ll find Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine. Besides, ‘PACS’ is the short form of the Picture Archive & Communication System.
DICOM & PACS
When it comes to the DICOM, it’s widely preferred for the file format of medical imaging. It can store the image with the necessary metadata of a patient without losing a single digit. Also, it’s very easy to access these types of files.
But, PACS is purposing to create an easier way to handle your medical images when you need to monitor the status of the documents. Also, it allows you to store 2D and 3D images. Well, let’s know about them in details below:
How to View Images on DICOM?
It already has said that DICOM is the type of format that keeps all metadata intact regarding the file. This is a major benefit that people like to use this format when they need to store and share their medical images.
Now, you might be getting curious to know how the format (.dcm) works to view medical images. But, don’t forget one thing about this format is that you always should avoid renaming any DICOM files. You should have PACS to open and view your .dcm files.
When you choose a Cloud or local PACS solution, you’ll get a free viewer with it. But, if you use a cloud service, you’ll be able to open your documents directly throughout your browser. It’s as simple and handy that you can do it from anywhere and at any time.
Things to Know About PACS
We know an image paints a thousand stories. At the same way, radiology practices store large medical images that come with many stories. It also includes the diagnosing as well as treating plans of the patients. They use PACS to store, use, and share the imaging files of their patients.
Thus other members of their team can search and use the image and data accordingly. You can use a cloud or local servers to expand your mobility and ease of use. Also, it’s a great way to maintain your CAT scans and MRI reports to go with a paperless radiology practice.
You’re doing your staff and patients a crucial disservice if you’re been getting a paper-based system. It needs much more time to locate hard files of these data and images. Also, you need to deal with the potentiality that these records will get outright lost or misfiled.
Bottom Line
You never should forget that all PACS DICOM viewer that are free and open-source have not made equally. And the same thing is applicable for PACS as well. That means you should be selective while choosing them.
