Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS)

Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) is a system that allows for the digital storage, archiving, sharing, and viewing of medical images (X-ray, CT, MRI, ultrasound, etc.). Images are produced in the DICOM standard and are centrally stored in PACS.

PACS eliminates the need for film and physical archiving, providing quick access to images from anywhere and completing the radiology process along with RIS.

Other names / abbreviation: Picture Archiving and Communication System.

What is it used for?

PACS provides quick and secure access to medical images, reduces physical archiving costs, and enables the sharing of images between different units and institutions.

Key features

• DICOM archive: Standardized storage of medical images.
• Viewer: Diagnostic image review tools.
• Sharing and access: Role-based access to images from anywhere.
• Long-term archiving: Storage of high-volume images.

Integration and standards

The Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) does not operate in isolation; it typically exchanges data with the following systems and processes:

• RIS
• Imaging devices (modalities)
• Teleradiology system
• VNA (Vendor Neutral Archive)

Commonly referenced standards and regulations:

• DICOM
• HL7
• KVKK

Benefits provided

• Quick access to images
• Reduction in physical archiving costs
• Inter-unit/institution sharing

Selection and evaluation criteria

The main criteria considered when evaluating a picture archiving and communication system (PACS) include:

• DICOM compliance and viewer quality
• Storage/scalability
• RIS integration
• Backup and archiving strategy

Points to consider

• High image volume creates storage and performance requirements.
• Long-term archiving and backup planning is critical.