Implementation of a Digital Radiographic Image Acquisition and Retrieval System (DRIARS) using a wireless network in an orthodontic department.

AIM: The objective of this report is to describe the implementation and pilot-test of an integrated wireless local area network (WLAN) system that incorporated the Planmeca Promax CCD based digital panoramic/cephalometric x-ray system, Dolphin(R) software, and multiple remote user units to increase the efficiency of data management by the residents in the Department of Orthodontics. BACKGROUND: The Department of Orthodontics of the New Jersey Dental School (NJDS) acquired the Dolphin cephalometric analysis software and the Planmeca Promax digital panoramic/cephalometric x-ray units on separate occasions. Dolphin has been in use for many years at this institution, the current version being 10, and the Promax was acquired in the Fall of 2002. The digital panoramic and cephalometric radiographs were acquired and stored separately in the Planmeca's Dimaxis database. REPORT: During the incorporation of the WLAN, there was an opportunity to research and install the best available security system for the WLAN so it could be a network model for the other departments within the dental school and perhaps other dental schools around the nation. SUMMARY: Digital radiographs, once obtained, can be stored locally or transmitted securely to remote locations via a local area network. This article describes the selection criteria and methodology that would optimize the transmission and retrieval of such images instantaneously on demand at chair side locations. This will not only save significant clinical time but will enhance the productivity of the clinic in the long run.