New digital imaging tools will help doctors’ diagnoses at UMC

Thursday, Dec. 4, 2003 | 8:17 a.m.

University Medical Center is revolutionizing the way its physicians diagnose and treat life-threatening cardiac conditions, using crisp, new digital images that will eventually be available via the Internet for consultation with physicians and medical experts worldwide.

The hospital's cardiac lab will become fully digital thanks to the efforts of Sen. Harry Reid, D-Nev., who was a key part in the hospital securing federal funds to implement its Picture Archiving and Communication System in the Cardiac Catheterization Lab.

Reid joined Dr. Mark Taylor, medical director of UMC's Cardiac Catheterization Lab, Tuesday at a news conference and tour of the lab.

"New medical technology can help Nevadans lead happier, healthier lives, but only if that technology is accessible," Reid said. "These new digital images will be available right here at UMC so patients can get high-tech care at their local hospital."

The Picture Archiving and Communication System provides a sharper image, enabling doctors to better detect and treat abnormalities. The system also allows doctors to access the images from their office computer or send them worldwide by Internet for consultation.

Images produced by the Picture Archiving and Communication System are also easier to store. Through this system, images are stored on a disc or computer server, similar to images on a personal digital camera. Currently, images are being stored on film.

Taylor said the film does not always offer doctors the clarity needed when reviewing a case, while digital images stay clear and clean indefinitely.