Title: A semi-automated quality assurance toolbox for diagnostic imaging

Authors: Christodoulos Constantinou; Andreas Grondoudis; Andreas Christoforou; Andreas Lanitis; Christakis Constantinides

Addresses: CNC Medical Physics Services, 14 Elenis Loizidou, Nicosia, Cyprus ' Department of Computer Science and Engineering, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus ' Logisoft Computer Systems, Agias Filaxeos, Limassol, Cyprus ' Visual Media Computing Lab, Department of Multimedia and Graphic Arts, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus ' Chi-Biomedical Ltd, 36 Parthenonos Street, Nicosia, Cyprus

Abstract: A prototype software system for supporting the process of data collection and management in Quality Assurance (QA) for diagnostic imaging is presented. The developed system comprises two main units: the Image Processing Unit (IPU) and the Data Management Unit (DMU). The IPU is implemented to analyse images from different diagnostic modalities to allow extraction of quantitative measurements for further processing or immediate storage. The IPU is dynamically linked to the DMU so that measurements are transferred directly to the DMU. This process allows the automated generation of quality assurance reports for all such modalities. Apart from its low cost, flexibility for expandability and portability, the developed system extensively and comprehensively tests diagnostic modalities for compliance with international guidelines and standards, offering a structured approach to a comprehensive QA methodology.

Keywords: automated QA; quality assurance; diagnostic radiology; image processing; data management; diagnostic imaging; medical images.

DOI: 10.1504/IJBET.2014.059345

International Journal of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, 2014 Vol.14 No.2, pp.159 - 180

Received: 19 Nov 2013
Accepted: 17 Jan 2014
Published online: 16 Oct 2014 *

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