Digital chest radiography at the University of Chicago: present status and future plans.

Storage-phosphor computed radiography and film digitization systems have been in routine clinical use at the University of Chicago for several years. During this time we have implemented numerous modifications including techniques for scatter reduction, image processing enhancements and display systems to improve the image quality and utility of these devices. We have also evaluated the image quality and functionality of digital systems relative to conventional screen-film radiography. In this paper, we review our experience and summarize our impressions. In addition, we summarize our plans for a rapid transition into picture archiving and communication systems, with hardcopy interpretation being phased out for most modalities over the next 2 to 5 years.