Teleradiology

The existence and use of teleradiology in the twenty-first century is a given in any field that uses radiographic images for medical diagnoses and treatment. The aim of this article was to provide a brief overview of the current state-of-the-art of maxillofacial surgery teleradiology. This was followed by an examination of important factors to consider when choosing a network configuration to best suit the needs of the practice environment. Above all, speed and fidelity of image data transfer are key to the success of any teleradiology program. One also must consider the importance of the reading environment and the display medium that the clinician must use on a daily basis to interpret these images and render a diagnostic decision. On this side of the equation, it is essential that the diagnosis rendered by the clinician with teleradiology is at least as good as that using traditional acquisition and display methods. To be certain, all of the legal implications of teleradiology in general and in the area of oral and maxillofacial surgery¹² have not been solved, but teleradiology and PACS soon will be the standard method of diagnosis in many practices.