WO2009151167A1

WO2009151167A1 - Remote medical reading and method using digital cervicography system

Info

Publication number: WO2009151167A1
Application number: PCT/KR2008/003347
Authority: WO
Inventors: Hyeon Su Shin; Seung Yong Park
Original assignee: Ntl Asia Co., Ltd.
Priority date: 2008-06-13
Filing date: 2008-06-13
Publication date: 2009-12-17
Also published as: CN102067162A

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a remote medical reading system and method using a Digital Cervicography System (DCS). The remote medical reading system includes a requester computer based on Requester (RQ) application software, an evaluator computer based on Evaluator (EV) application software, and an operator server based on Service Provider (SP) application software. The requester computer selects one or more captured cervix images, creates a 'request file' by combining the selected cervix images with a patient's basic information, and sends the 'request file' to the operator server. The evaluator computer receives the 'request file' or a 'reevaluation request file, ' creates a 'read file' by reading the images, and sends the 'read file' to the operator server. The operator server, after the 'request file' has been sent to the evaluator computer, examines the quality of the 'read file' from the evaluator computer, and determines approval or reevaluation.

Description

[DES(ZRIPTION]

[invention Title]

REMOTE MEDICAL READING SYSTEM AND METHOD USING DIGITAL CERVICOGRAPHY SYSTEM

[Technical Field]

The present invention relates, in general, to a remote medical reading system and method using a digital cervicography system, and, more particularly, to a remote medical reading system and method using a digital cervicography system that sends one or more images of the cervix, captured using digital cervicography, to an evaluator at a remote location and examines the results of reading, thus being able to receive accurate reading results through reevaluation.

[Background Art] In general, in the reading of a medical state using images, in order to prevent an erroneous diagnosis, one or more images of a portion of medical interest are sent to an evaluator, the result of relevant reading are received, and then medical treatment is given to a patient based on the results of the reading.

With regard to this, a plurality of prior art technologies related to a remote reading system, including Korean Unexamined Patent Application No. 2000-0018187 (entitled "Apparatus and Method for reading Cervical Cancer) (hereinafter referred to as "prior art V), have been filed and granted patents .

In greater detail, the configuration of prior art 1 includes a cervix capturing unit for capturing the cervixes, a data processing unit for performing various functions of storing, searching, deleting and editing images of the cervixes captured by the cervix capturing unit, a reading requester for directly requesting the reading of data, received from the data processing unit, from an evaluator through an Internet image transmission system (colponet) , and the evaluator for receiving the data from the reading requester, reading the data and sending the results of the reading to the reading requester. However, in prior art 1, in the case of the transmission of cervix test images through the Internet image transmission system as used in conjunction with personal hospitals and general hospitals throughout a nation, captured or stored images are converted into web Internet images and the web Internet images are sent, with the result that there is the risk of deteriorating or damaging the images at the time of the conversion. Furthermore, since such evaluators are limited to evaluators working at general hospitals, there are risks in which erroneous diagnoses attributable to determination errors occur.

Korean Unexamined Patent Application No. 2002-0016289 (entitled ^ΛRemote Pathological Diagnosis Method and System using Internet' ) (hereinafter referred to as "prior art 2") , which was developed to solve the problems attributable to the above-described conversion of medical images, will be described below.

That is, in this remote reading system, when the test requester terminals of each medical institution which cannot perform pathological tests send patients' personal information for pathological tests to a pathological diagnosis center over the Internet, the patients' personal information sent by the test requester terminals is arranged in a list in order of reception, a diagnosis schedule is provided to test requesters, a test requester terminal relevant to the provided schedule sends a patient's image information data necessary for a pathological test to the pathological diagnosis center, and a medical specialist of the pathological diagnosis center reads the patient's image information data, performs a pathological test using one or more images reproduced by an image display means or the like, and sends the results of the test together with the medical specialist' s comments based on the pathological test to the test requester terminal.

That is, prior art 2 is configured such that a pathological specialist can restore compressed image information data, with the result that he or she performs a pathological test while magnifying the portions of the image information necessary for the pathological test through the manipulation of a mouse or a keyboard or reproducing necessary portions, thus being able to solve the problems attributable to the image conversion of prior art 1. However, prior art 2 also has the problem of erroneous diagnoses attributable to the performance of tests by a limited number of pathological specialists .

[Disclosure] [Technical Problem] Accordingly, the present invention has been made keeping in mind the above problems occurring in the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to send one or more captured cervix images to an evaluator at a remote location and examine the quality of the results of reading, thereby being able to receive accurate test results through reevaluation.

Another object of the present invention is to capture the cervix using digital cervicography (Dr. Cervicam) , thereby being able to provide high-resolution images for accurate reading. A further object of the present invention is to share the results of reading, with the result that all evaluators share the data and use the shared data as learning material for accurate reading.

Still another object of the present invention is to, in the case in which reading results are determined to be inaccurate, and thus reevaluation is performed, designate a re- evaluator from among evaluators who can perform reading on that day in order of priority in order to perform reevaluation.

[Technical Solution] In order to accomplish the above objects, the present invention provides a remote medical reading system using a

Digital Cervicography System (DCS) , the remote medical reading system including a requester computer (100) based on Requester

(RQ) application software, an evaluator computer (200) based on Evaluator (EV) application software, and an operator server

(300) based on Service Provider (SP) application software, the remote medical reading system including the requester computer

(100) for selecting one or more captured cervix images, creating a 'request file' by combining the selected cervix images with a patient' s basic information, and sending the

'request file' to the operator server (300) ; the evaluator computer (200) for receiving the 'request file' or a

'reevaluation request file, ' creating a 'read file' by reading the images, and sending the 'read file' to the operator server; and the operator server (300) for, after the 'request file' has been sent to the evaluator computer, examining quality of the

'read file' from the evaluator computer, and determining approval or reevaluation; wherein the operator server (300) comprises a reading verification module unit (340) in which, on a basis of Quality Control (QC) application software, a selection and comparison module (341) searches for reading results using a reading result list, including the 'read file, ' and performs selection and comparison, a verification module

(342) gives approval if the reading results are correct, and a reevaluation module (343) selects an evaluator, who can perform reading on that day, on order of reading priority if the reading results are not correct. Furthermore, the present invention provides a remote medical reading method using a DCS, the remote medical reading method including a requester computer (100) based on Requester

(300) based on Service Provider (SP) application software, the remote medical reading method comprising the steps of (a) the operator server (300) receiving a ^Λrequest file,' created by combining a patient' s basic information, one or more cervix images and a chart number, from the requester computer (100) ;

(b) the operator server checking the patient's information, included in the ^Λ request file, for one or more input errors, and correcting the input errors; (c) the operator server preparing a request for a test to be sent to an evaluator computer (200) using the ^request file'; (d) the operator server requesting reading of the ^request file' from the evaluator computer; (e) the operator server receiving a ^Λread file' from the evaluator computer; and (f) the operator server checking the ^Λread file' and then sending the ^λread file' to the requester computer, so that a requester can check the ^xread file' ; further comprising, after the step (e) , the steps of (e-

1) the operator server, which checked reading results, determining whether to approve the ^λread file'; (e-2) if, as a result of the determination at step (e-1) , the reading results are not correct, the operator server designating an evaluator who can perform reading at that day and requesting reevaluation from the evaluator computer; and (e-3) if the reading results are correct, the operator server determining to approve the λread file . '

[Description of Drawings]

Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the entire construction of a remote medical reading system using a DCS according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 2 is a detailed block diagram of a requester computer according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 3 is a detailed block diagram of an evaluator computer according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 4 is a detailed block diagram of an operator server according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 5 is a diagram showing a screen in which an image to be sent is selected from among captured cervix images according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 6 is a diagram showing a screen in which a patient's basic information is input according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 7 is a diagram showing a screen in which transmission to an operator server is performed according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 8 is a diagram showing a screen in which 'request files' are set separately or together according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 9 is a diagram showing a screen in which multiple patients' 'request files' are sent according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 10 is a diagram showing a screen in which refreshing is performed to send the remaining patient' s Λrequest file' according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 11 is a diagram showing a screen in which the remaining patient's basic information is combined with images according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 12 is a diagram showing a reading result list screen in which reading results can be checked according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 13 is a diagram showing a screen that displays test results according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 14 is a diagram showing a screen in which reading is performed before the checking of test result images and the reception of test results according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 15 is a diagram showing a screen in which ^request files' are received and are checked via a list according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 16 is a diagram showing a screen in which a ^Λrequest file' is selected and read according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 17 is a diagram showing a screen in which a ^λrequest file' is read and then comments are prepared according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 18 is a diagram showing a screen in which a portion of medical interest is marked using a toolbox according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 19 is a diagram showing a screen in which patients' basic information is checked via a patient management list according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 20 is a diagram showing a screen in which new patients are registered according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 21 is a diagram showing a screen in which ^request files' are searched for in a specific period according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 22 is a diagram showing a screen in which a test result list is checked according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 23 is a diagram showing a screen in which a request for a test is prepared according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 24 is a diagram showing a screen in which ^Λread files' are compared and analyzed according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 25 is a diagram showing a screen in which a ^λread file' is reevaluated according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 26 is an entire flowchart showing a remote medical reading method using a DCS according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 27 is a detailed flowchart showing the step of creating a ^λrequest file' according to an embodiment of the present invention in detail;

Fig. 28 is a diagram showing a screen in which a requester computer sends a ^λrequest file' according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

Fig. 29 is a detailed flowchart showing the step of performing reading according to an embodiment of the present invention in detail .

*** Description of reference numerals of principal elements in the drawings ***

100: requester computer 110: capturing module unit

120: reception module unit

130: checking and combination module

140: setting module unit 150: transmission module unit

160: storage unit 170: output unit

200: evaluator computer 210: input module unit

220: reading module unit 221: file checking module

222: reading module 223: comment creation module 224: correction module 225: sharing module

230: transmission module unit 300: operator server

310: communication module unit

320: registration and management module unit

321: registration module 322: checking and correction module

330: reading request module unit

340: reading verification module unit 341: selection and comparison module

342: verification module

343: reevaluation module 350: memory unit

[Best Mode] Detailed characteristics and merits of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings . Prior to a detailed description, terms or words that are used in the specification and the claims should be considered to have meanings and concepts that comply with the technical spirit of the present invention based on the principle by which an inventor can appropriately define the concepts of the terms or words in order to describe the invention in the best way. The technical spirit of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings . Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the entire construction of a remote medical reading system using a DCS according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 2 is a detailed block diagram of a requester computer according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 3 is a detailed block diagram of an evaluator computer according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 4 is a detailed block diagram of an operator server according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 5 is a diagram showing a screen in which an image to be sent is selected from among captured cervix images according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 6 is a diagram showing a screen in which a patient' s basic information is input according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 7 is a diagram showing a screen in which transmission to an operator server is performed according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 8 is a diagram showing a screen in which ^λrequest files' are set separately or together according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 9 is a diagram showing a screen in which multiple patients' ^Λrequest files' are sent according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 10 is a diagram showing a screen in which refreshing is performed to send the remaining patient's ^request file' according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 11 is a diagram showing a screen in which the remaining patient' s basic information is combined with images according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 12 is a diagram showing a reading result list screen in which reading results can be checked according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 13 is a diagram showing a screen that displays test results according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 14 is a diagram showing a screen in which reading is performed before the checking of test result images and the reception of test results according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 15 is a diagram showing a screen in which ^request files' are received and are checked via a list according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 16 is a diagram showing a screen in which a ^request file' is selected and read according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 17 is a diagram showing a screen in which a λrequest file' is read and then comments are prepared according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 18 is a diagram showing a screen in which a portion of medical interest is marked using a toolbox according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 19 is a diagram showing a screen in which patients' basic information is checked via a patient management list according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 20 is a diagram showing a screen in which new patients are registered according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 21 is a diagram showing a screen in which ^request files' are searched for in a specific period according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 22 is a diagram showing a screen in which a test result list is checked according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 23 is a diagram showing a screen in which a request for a test is prepared according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 24 is a diagram showing a screen in which ^Λread files' are compared and analyzed according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 25 is a diagram showing a screen in which a ^λread file' is reevaluated according to an embodiment of the present invention.

For reference, a Digital Cervicography System (DCS) rapidly processes a plurality of dynamic information exchanges between four interconnected groups, that is, a provider/requesters, evaluators, service provider/NTL, and pathology laboratories through compression and encryption. That is, since a database is placed at the center of the system and active Internet communication is supported between all units (modules) and a central sender (server) , all related parties gain access over the web. When a requester sends one or more images and a patient' s basic information, a service provider stores the information in a data server and, at the same time, sends the patient's basic information and an image file to an evaluator through a network or a modem. When the evaluator reads the images and sends the results of the reading to the service provider, the results are sent to the requester and stored in the data server. Through this process, patients can quickly learn of test results, while hospitals can provide better medical diagnosis and treatment services using this . The remote medical reading system using a DCS, as shown in Fig. 1, includes a requester computer 100 for sending a ^request file,' created by selecting one or more cervix images captured using digital cervicography A and combining them with a patient's basic information, to an operator server 300, an evaluator computer 200 for receiving the ^λrequest file, ' creating a ^Λread file' by reading the images, and sending the ^λread file' to an operator server 300, and the operator server 300 for sending the ^λrequest file' to the evaluator computer 200, checking the ^λread file' , received from the evaluator computer 200, for quality, and performing approval or requesting reevaluation.

In greater detail, referring to Fig. 2, the requester computer 100 includes a capturing module unit 110, a reception module unit 120, a checking and combination module 130, a setting module unit 140, a transmission module unit 150, a storage unit 160 and an output unit 170, on the basis of Requester (RQ) application software.

The capturing module unit 110 acquires images of the cervix using the digital cervicography A, and sends the cervix images to the checking and combination module unit 130. A patient's basic information and a ^λread file' are received through the reception module unit 120. When the checking and combination module unit 130 checks the patient's basic information, the cervix images and a chart number and creates a λrequest file' by combining them, evaluators desired by the patient or a requester are set in order of reading priority through the setting module unit 140, and the ^Λrequest file' is sent to the operator server 300 through the transmission module unit 150.

In the present embodiment, when two images are selected from among the cervix images, acquired by the capturing module unit 110, and are attached, as shown in Fig. 5, and if ^ΛDo not delete remaining pictures' is not selected for those pictures which have not been selected, the pictures which have not been selected are automatically deleted after the transmission of the ^request file.' Here, the digital cervicography A (Dr. Cervicam) adopts four million-pixel Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) , and is a very high-quality digital imaging system that implements actual images similar to those under natural light, provides superior close-up images, acquires high-resolution images, and can be used through manipulation in a simple manner .

However, although, in the present embodiment, cervix images are described as being acquired using the digital cervicography (Dr. Cervicam) , the present invention is not limited thereto, but it is possible to capture the cervix using a cerviscope and digitize and use one or more images of the cervix through a scanner. For reference, although the patient's basic information is set to include the name, resident registration number, chart number and special information (pregnancy, the number of pregnancies, the number of deliveries, some disease condition and the like) of a patient corresponding to cervix images, as shown in Fig. 6, the patient's basic information is not limited thereto. Here, the name and the resident registration number must be input because they are absolutely required input values, and the previously stored patient's information may be retrieved using a chart number. Meanwhile, the transmission module unit 150 can send the λ request file' through the selection of ^Λ Immediate request after transmission' and ^λOnly transmission.' When transmission to server' is selected in the state in which ^λ Immediate request after transmission' has been selected, as shown in Fig. 7, a test is immediately requested from an evaluator. In this case, information corresponding to the patient's special information (pregnancy, the number of pregnancies, the number of deliveries, other test results, treatment history, and the like) , and the request is sent to a relevant evaluator through the setting module unit 150 in order of reading priority. When transmission to server' is selected in the state in which ^λOnly transmission' has been selected, it is possible to input or correct the patient' s basic information at the operator server 300.

Meanwhile, when the 'request file' is sent to the operator server 300, overall transmission or partial transmission based on selection may be performed through a request list, as shown in Fig. 8.

In general, a single 'request file' for patient A is sent. The case in which a 'request file' for patient B is sent together with some other file is shown in Fig. 9. That is, the checking and combination module unit 130 selects two cervix images corresponding to a patient's basic information that is input, selects 'Do not delete remaining pictures, ' creates a 'request file' for patient A by combining the patient A' s basic information with the cervix images, and sends the file to the operator server 300. Thereafter, referring to Figs. 10 and 11, a 'request file' for patient B is created by performing 'Refresh' in order to combine the remaining images with the patient B' s basic information and sending the resulting data.

Furthermore, when a 'request file' is sent to the operator server 300, the 'request file' may be stored depending on whether 'Save in My Computer' is selected. Here, when it is impossible to send the 'request file' at the time of sending the ^request file' due to a network failure, the ^request file' is automatically stored in the storage unit 160.

Meanwhile, after the output unit 170 receives a ^λread file' including the results of reading and read pictures through the reception module unit 120, the output unit 170 displays it so that a patient or requester can perform checking. That is, as shown in Figs. 12 and 13, it is possible to make a search for each piece of a patient' s basic information, each date, or a reading result value, and the reading results can be viewed by selecting ^ΛView.' That is, as shown in Fig. 14, it is possible to view one or more patient's cervix images through ^picture view.'

Meanwhile, the RQ module unit 180 is connected to the operator server 300, performs functions of providing public notices, managing patient/hospital information, and searching for and outputting reading results and the progress of a test, and includes a management module 181, a reading request module 182, a reading result checking module 183 and a test progress checking module 18. Although, in the present embodiment, the state of a request for a test by the requester computer 100 from the evaluator is set to be displayed in the form of a popup window when access to the operator server 300 is made, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, if the number of tests for which requests have not been made is one or more, this refers to the state in which one or more requester computers 100 send one or more ^request files' to the operator server 300, but did not yet request the reading thereof from the evaluator computer 200.

First, the management module 181 arranges a list of patients for whom reading is requested by requester computers 100, and checks and manages patients' basic information using the patients' names and resident registration numbers. This enables the patients of each hospital or each doctor to be searched for.

Furthermore, new patient registration can be performed without using a ^λrequest file.'

The reading request module 182 prepares a request for a test using the ^request file' sent to the operator server 300, and directly requests reading from the evaluator computer 200. In this case, it is possible for the reading request module 182 to request only the reading of a ^request file' that has been sent in an ^λOnly transmission' mode. That is, special information, such as pregnancy, the number of pregnancies, the number of deliveries, the number of miscarriages, or other test results (PAP, CVG, HPV, or Bx results), may be additionally input, comments can be input when additional explanation is required, and an evaluator desired by a patient, a doctor or a hospital may be selected from among evaluators who can perform reading on that day on order of priority.

The reading result checking module 183 checks reading results through a search for a patient corresponding to the requester computer 100 for each hospital/doctor using a reading result list. Here, the reading results can be searched for using a reading request date, a test progress state, a patient name, a patient resident registration number, or a chart number, and cervix images can be checked.

Here, it is preferred that status, such as ^λDuring reading, ^Completion of reading,' 'Checking of reading results' or ^ΛOutput of reading results,' be changed in the reading result list when the requester computer 100 performs checking.

Meanwhile, reading result checking module 183 may select patients A and B' s reading results from the reading result list, and make a comparison therebetween on the screen.

The test progress checking module 184 checks the number of requests for reading that, in a specific period, have been made by the requester computer 100 and have been processed.

Referring to Fig. 3, the evaluator computer 200 receives a ^λrequest file' or a ^Λreevaluation request file' from the operator server 300 through the input module unit 210 on the basis of Evaluator (EV) application software, the reading module unit 220 checks an image list and creates a ^Λread file' by reading the ^λrequest file' using a toolbox, and the transmission module unit 230 sends the ^λread file' to the operator server 300. The evaluator computer 200 includes an input module unit 210, a reading module unit 220, and a transmission module unit 230.

In greater detail, when the file checking module 221 checks a ^request file' to be read currently through a request list, as shown in Fig. 15, and the reading module 222 selects the ^request file' to be read from the request list, as shown in Fig. 16, the reading module unit 220 performs comparison and reading using a toolbox, and inputs arranged reading results through a comment creation module 223, thereby creating a ^λread file,' as shown in Fig. 17. In this case, the reading module 222 may mark the portion of an image in which a medical problem is determined to occur while expanding or reducing the image, such as that shown in Fig. 18, using the toolbox.

Furthermore, the evaluator computer 200 may change the value of the created ^Λread file' using the correction module 224. That is, comments may be added, changed, or deleted.

Meanwhile, the evaluator computer 200 may set the created ^λread file' to be shared with some other evaluator through the sharing module 225. The ^λread file' to be shared is shared via the operator server 300, and data stored in the

^Λread file' may be used as learning material.

Referring to Fig. 4, the operator server 300 includes a communication module unit 310, a registration and management module unit 320, a reading request module unit 330, a reading verification module unit 340 and a memory unit 350, on the basis of Service Provider (SP) application software.

First, the communication module unit 310 receives the ^request file' from the requester computer 100, sends the ^Λrequest file' and a ^Λreevualtion request file' to the evaluator computer 200, receives the ^λread file' from the evaluator computer 200, and sends the ^λread file' to the requester computer 100. Thereafter, the registration and management module unit

320 manages lists, ^Λrequest files' and ^λread files' corresponding to patients, requesters, evaluators and hospitals using the DCS by adding new information to them or modifying them.

In greater detail, the registration module 321 registers a new member, such as a patient, a requester, an evaluator or a hospital. For example, the registration module 321 checks a patient's basic information using a name and a resident registration number, which are absolutely required input values, through a patient list, such as that shown in Fig. 19, and registers new patient information via ^ΛAdd new patient' as shown in Fig. 20.

The checking and correction module 322 checks a list, a λrequest file' and a ^λread file, ' corresponding to a patient, a requester, an evaluator or a hospital, through searching, and corrects erroneous information when the erroneous information is found.

A ^λread file' may be searched for according to a test request date, the progress of a test, a patient name, a resident registration number or a chart number.

For reference, searching can be performed based on period. That is, it is possible to check the number of requests made and the number of requests processed for each test service in a specific period via a form, such as that shown in Fig. 21.

In the present embodiment, when a plurality of doctors is working at hospital A, all patients at hospital A or the patients of doctor A are searchable. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

For example, referring to a reading result list using λread files,' such as that shown in Fig. 22, the states of the list are classified into ^During reading, ' ^Completion of reading,' ^xRead results,' and ^Output results.' When a doctor checks results the reading of which is completed, the state thereof is changed to ^λRead results.' When results are output, the state thereof is changed to ^ΛOutput results . ' When Correction' is selected, it is possible to correct basic information, such as a patient's name, a resident registration number or a chart number. Furthermore, it is possible to view one or more cervix images using ^xView.' Thereafter, the reading request module unit 330 prepares a request for a test, such as that shown in Fig. 23, in order to request the reading of a received ^λrequest file.'

In greater detail, when the ^Λrequest file' is received in the ^λOnly transmission' mode of the transmission module unit 150, a request for a test is prepared in such a way as to read the values of a chart number, a resident registration number and a name from the ^Λrequest file' and select a relevant evaluator in the set order of reading priority. In the case in which only some of a chart number, a resident registration number and a name are recorded when a request for a test is prepared, the request for a test may be prepared using the patient list through searching. In contrast, in the case in which a ^Λrequest file' is received in the ^ΛImmediate reading request after transmission' mode, a request for a test is prepared in such a way as to read relevant values from the ^λrequest file' and input an evaluator designated by a requester.

Thereafter, the reading verification module unit 340, on the basis of Quality Control (QC) application software, searches for reading results using a reading result list, including a ^Λread file,' performs selection and comparison, and gives approval if the reading results are correct, or requests reevaluation if the reading results are incorrect.

That is, after ^λread files' for which 'Completion of reading' is indicated are searched for and read file A and read file B are selected through the selection and comparison module 341, as shown in Fig. 24, reading results A and B are compared with each other by selecting 'Selection and Comparison.'

A verification module 342 checks reading results through the selection and comparison module 341, and verifies the reading results, received from the evaluator computer 200, if the reading results are determined to be correct. In contrast, if the reading results are not determined to be correct, reevaluation is requested, as shown in Fig. 25. In this case, a plurality of cases may be verified at one time.

When a reevaluation module 343 request reevaluation because the reading results are incorrect, it selects an evaluator from among evaluators who can perform reading on that day in order of reading priority and requests the evaluator to perform the reevaluation.

The memory unit 350 stores a list, a ^request file' and a ^Λread file' corresponding to each of patients, requesters, evaluators and hospitals using the DCS. For reference, the requester computer 100, the evaluator computer 200 and the operator server 300 may output and check reading results using respective separate printers.

A remote medical reading method using a DCS through application software, which is constructed as described above, will be described below with reference to Figs. 26 to 29.

Fig. 26 is an entire flowchart showing a remote medical reading method using a DCS according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 27 is a detailed flowchart showing the step of creating a ^Λrequest file' according to an embodiment of the present invention in detail, Fig. 28 is a diagram showing a screen in which a requester computer sends a ^Λrequest file' according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig.

29 is a detailed flowchart showing the step of performing reading according to an embodiment of the present invention in detail.

In order to send a ^λrequest file' to the operator server 300 and receive a ^λread file' after acquiring one or more images of the cervix, a requester must be provided with an ID and a password. Furthermore, in order to be provided with the ID and the password, the requester must perform a membership subscription in advance. Furthermore, it is also apparent that, in order to send a ^λread file' to the operator server 300 and receive a ^Λrequest file, ' the evaluator must be provided with an ID and a password. It is also apparent that, in order to be provided with the ID and the password, a membership subscription must be made in advance . As shown in Fig. 26, the operator server 300 receives a ^request file,' created by combining a patient's basic information, one or more cervix images and a chart number, from the requester computer 100 at step S2.

Referring to step S2 of receiving the ^request file' in detail, the requester computer 100 captures a patient's cervix, as shown in Fig. 27, in order to request the reading of a portion of medical interest at step S2a. That is, in order to acquire clear images of the cervix, images are acquired through enlarged image capturing using digital cervicography A at step S2al, and two images are selected from among the acquired cervix images at step S2a2.

Although, in the present embodiment, the cervix has been described as being captured using digital cervicography A, the present invention is not limited thereto but may be used to capture other portions of medical interest.

Thereafter, the requester computer 100 inputs the patient's basic information at step S2b. In greater detail, the requester computer 100 inputs information, including the patient' s name, resident registration number, chart number and particular information (pregnancy, the number of pregnancies, the number of deliveries, diseases and the like) . In this case, the name and the resident registration number must be input because they are absolutely required values . Alternatively, previously stored patient information may be retrieved using a relevant chart number.

The requester computer 100 creates a 'request file' by combining the patient' s basic information with the selected two images at step S2c.

As shown in Fig. 28, in order to request reading, the requester computer 100 sends the 'request file' to the operator server 300 at step S2d. If the 'request file' cannot be sent due to a network failure at step S2e, the requester computer 100 automatically stores the 'request file' in the storage unit 160 at step S2f. That is, when the network recovers from the failure, the automatically stored 'request file' is retrieved and resent to the operator server 300. The operator server 300 checks the patient information included in the 'request file' received through the patient information communication module unit 310 and checks and corrects input errors at step S4.

In greater detail, when the 'request file' is sent from the requester computer 100 in an 'Immediate reading request after transmission' mode, the 'request file' is sent with an evaluator designated, and thus the operator server 300 cannot correct the 'request file.' In contrast, with regard to a 'request file' sent in an 'Only transmission' mode, the operator server 300 selects an evaluator in order of reading priority previously set by a requester or a hospital, and corrects the patient's basic information if an input error is found .

Thereafter, the operator server 300 prepares a request for a test to be sent to the evaluator computer 200 using the checked 'request file' at step S6. In greater detail, when the 'request file' is received in the 'Only transmission' mode of the transmission module unit 150, the values of a chart number, a resident registration number and a name are read from the 'request file, ' a relevant evaluator is selected in order of the set reading priority, and a request for a test is prepared. In the case in which some of a chart number, a resident registration number and a name have been recorded at the time of preparing a request for a test, the request for a test may be prepared through searching a patient list. In contrast, in the case in which a 'request file' is received in the 'Immediate reading request after transmission' mode, a request for a test is prepared in such a way as to read relevant values from the ^Λrequest file' and input an evaluator designated by a requester. The operator server 300 requests reading from the evaluator computer 200 by sending the 'request file' at step S8.

Step S8 will be described in detail below with reference to Fig. 29. The evaluator computer 200 downloads and checks the 'request file' sent from the operator server 300 at step S8a.

The evaluator computer 200 instructs the evaluator, designated through the request for a test, to read the ^''request file' at step S8b.

That is, the evaluator computer 200 checks each image at step S8bl, expands or reduces the image using a toolbox at step S8b2, and marks a portion of the image which is of medical interest at step S8b3.

Thereafter, the evaluator computer 200 checks the image, and completes reading by creating a ^λread file' by entering the evaluator' s comments at step S8c. In this case, the evaluator computer 200 determines whether to change the values of the created ^Λread file' using a correction module 234 at step S8d.

That is, at step S8d, when it is necessary to correct the ^Λread file, ' the evaluator computer 200 adds, changes or deletes comments, or corrects the sharing status of the ^Λread file' at step S8e.

Meanwhile, the evaluator computer 200 determines whether to share the created ^λread file' through the sharing module 235 at step S8f. At step S8f, when the ^'"read file' is determined to be shared, evaluators, other than an evaluator who read the ^λread file, ' can check the ^Λread file, ' the 'read file' can be used as learning material at step S8g.

Accordingly, the evaluator computer 200 sends the created ^Λread file' to the operator server 300 through the transmission module unit 230.

The operator server 300 receives the ^Λread file' from the evaluator computer 200 through the communication module unit 310 at step SlO.

The operator server 300 searches the received ^Λread file' for respective conditions and checks the results of the reading at step S12.

Although, in the present embodiment, the ^Λread file' is described as being searched for by using the date of request for a test, the progress of a test, a patient name, a resident registration number or a chart number, the present invention is not limited thereto.

The operator server 300, which checked the reading results, determines whether to approve the ^Λread file' at step S14.

If, as a result of the determination at step S14, the reading results are determined to be incorrect, the operator server 300 request reevaluation from the evaluator computer 200 in order of reading priority at step Slβ. In this case, the operator server 300 designates an evaluator who can perform reevaluation. It is preferable to designate an evaluator in order of reading priority preset by a hospital or a requester.

The operator server 300 sends the ^λread file, ' which has been read or read again, to the requester computer 100 so that the requester can check the ^xread file' at step S18.

In this case, the requester computer 100 can perform output using a separately provided printer.

Meanwhile, if, as a result of the determination at step S14, the reading results are determined to be correct, the operator server 300 makes a decision about the approval of the λread file. '

Although the above description and illustration have been given in conjunction with the preferred embodiments to illustrate the technical spirit of the present invention, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated and described constructions and operations themselves, but it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various variations and modifications of the present invention are possible without departing from the scope of the technical spirit. Accordingly, all such appropriate variations and modifications and the equivalents thereof should be considered to fall within the range of the present invention.

[industrial Applicability] According to the above-described present invention, one or more high-precision images can be captured using digital cervicography (Dr. Cervicam) and sent to an evaluator at a remote location, and thus there is an advantage in that accurate reading results can be received. Furthermore, the quality of reading results is examined, and thus there is an advantage in which reliability can be provided to reading results through reevaluation.

Claims

[CLAIMS] [Claim 1]

A remote medical reading system using a Digital Cervicography System (DCS) , the remote medical reading system including a requester computer (100) based on Requester (RQ) application software, an evaluator computer (200) based on Evaluator (EV) application software, and an operator server (300) based on Service Provider (SP) application software, the remote medical reading system comprising: the requester computer (100) for selecting one or more captured cervix images, creating a ^Λrequest file' by combining the selected cervix images with a patient's basic information, and sending the ^Λrequest file' to the operator server (300) ; the evaluator computer (200) for receiving the ^request file' or a ^Λreevaluation request file, ' creating a ^λread file' by reading the images, and sending the ^Λread file' to the operator server; and the operator server (300) for, after the ^request file' has been sent to the evaluator computer, examining quality of the ^Λread file' from the evaluator computer, and determining approval or reevaluation; wherein the operator server (300) comprises a reading verification module unit (340) in which, on a basis of Quality Control (QC) application software, a selection and comparison module (341) searches for reading results using a reading result list, including the ^λread file, ' and performs selection and comparison, a verification module (342) gives approval if the reading results are correct, and a reevaluation module (343) selects an evaluator, who can perform reading on that day, on order of reading priority if the reading results are not correct.

[Claim 2]

The remote medical reading system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the requester computer (100) is configured such that a capturing module unit (110) acquires one or more cervix images and sends the cervix images to a checking and combination unit (130), a patient's basic information, including the patient's name, resident registration number, chart number and special information, and the 'read file' are received through a reception module unit (120), the checking and combination module unit (130) checks the patient's basic information, the cervix images and the chart number and creates the 'request file' by combining them, an evaluator desired by the patient or a requester is selected in order of reading priority through a setting module unit (140) , the 'request file' is sent to the operator server through a transmission module unit (150) , and an output unit (170) receives the 'read file' , including reading results based on the 'request file' and read pictures, through the reception module unit and displays it so that the patient or the requester can check it.

[Claim 3] The remote medical reading system as set forth in claim 2, wherein the capturing module unit (110) captures cervix images using digital cervicography A.

[Claim 4]

The remote medical reading system as set forth in claim 2, wherein the transmission module unit (150) uses, when sending the 'request file' to the operator server, an

'immediate reading request for transmission' mode of immediately requesting a test from the evaluator and an 'only transmission' mode of enabling the patient's basic information to be input and corrected at the operator server.

[Claim 5]

The remote medical reading system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the evaluator computer (200) comprises: an input module unit (210) for receiving the 'request file' or 'reevaluation request file' ; a reading module unit (220) configured such that a file checking module (221) checks the 'request file' to be currently read via a request list, a reading module (222) selects the 'request file' to be read from the request list and performs comparison and reading using a toolbox, and reading results are arranged through a comment creation module (223) , thereby creating the 'read file' ; and a transmission module unit (230) for sending the 'read file' to the operator server. [Claim 6]

The remote medical reading system as set forth in claim 5, wherein the reading module unit (220) comprises: a correction module (224) for adding, changing or selecting comment values of the ^Λread file' ; and a sharing module (225) for setting the ^Λread file' so that it is shared with other evaluators .

[Claim 7]

The remote medical reading system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the operator server (300) comprises: a communication module unit (310) for receiving the λrequest file' from the requester computer, sending the 'request file' or ^λreevaluation request file' to the evaluator computer, receiving the ^Λread file' from the evaluator computer, and sending the ^λread file' to the requester computer; a registration and management module unit (320) for managing a list of patients, requesters, evaluators and hospitals using the DCS, the 'request file' and the ''read file' by adding new information to them and changing them; a reading request module unit (330) for preparing a request for a test and requesting reading of the 'request file' from the evaluator computer; and a memory unit (350) for storing a list of patients, requesters, evaluators and hospitals using the DCS, the 'request file' and the 'read file.' [Claim 8]

The remote medical reading system as set forth in claim 7, wherein the reading request module unit (330) : when receiving the 'request file' in the ^Λonly transmission' mode, preparing the request for a test by reading values of a chart number, a resident registration number and a name from the ^request file' and selecting the relevant evaluator in order of reading priority; and when receiving the ^Λrequest file' in the ^λ Immediate reading request after transmission' mode, preparing the request for a test by reading relevant values from the ^request file' and inputting an evaluator designated by a requester.

[Claim 9]

The remote medical reading system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the requester computer 100 further comprises an RQ module unit (180), comprising a management module (181) for registering one or more new patients, and inquiring about and searching for patients corresponding to each hospital or doctor using a patient list; a reading request module (182) for, using the ^Λrequest file' sent in an ^λonly transmission' mode, selecting an evaluator, desired by a patient/doctor/hospital, from among evaluators who can perform reading on that day in order or priority, preparing the request for a test by entering special information, and requesting reading from the evaluator computer; a reading result checking module (183) for comparing or checking reading results, including cervix images, through searing of the reading result list for patients for each hospital or doctor; and a test progress checking module (184) for checking progress of requests for reading for a specific period.

[Claim lθ]

A remote medical reading method using a DCS, the remote medical reading method including a requester computer (100) based on Requester (RQ) application software, an evaluator computer (200) based on Evaluator (EV) application software, and an operator server (300) based on Service Provider (SP) application software, the remote medical reading method comprising the steps of:

(a) the operator server (300) receiving a ^Λrequest file,' created by combining a patient's basic information, one or more cervix images and a chart number, from the requester computer (100) ;

(b) the operator server checking the patient' s information, included in the ^Λrequest file, for one or more input errors, and correcting the input errors;

(c) the operator server preparing a request for a test to be sent to an evaluator computer (200) using the ^request file' ;

(d) the operator server requesting reading of the ^request file' from the evaluator computer;

(e) the operator server receiving a ^Λread file' from the evaluator computer; and

(f) the operator server checking the ^xread file' and then sending the ^λread file' to the requester computer, so that a requester can check the ^λread file' ; further comprising, after the step (e) , the steps of:

(e-1) the operator server, which checked reading results, determining whether to approve the ^Λread file' ;

(e-2) if, as a result of the determination at step (e- 1) , the reading results are not correct, the operator server designating an evaluator who can perform reading at that day and requesting reevaluation from the evaluator computer; and

(e-3) if the reading results are correct, the operator server determining to approve the ^λread file.'

[Claim ll] The remote medical reading system as set forth in claim 10, further comprising, before the step (a) , the steps of:

(a-1) the requester computer capturing a patient's cervix using digital cervicography A so as to request reading of a portion of medical interest; (a-2) the requester computer receiving a patient's basic information, including the patient' s name, resident registration number, chart number and special information;

(a-3) the requester computer creating a ^request file' by combining the patient's basic information with one or more cervix images; and

(a-4) the requester computer sending the ^Λrequest file' to the operator server.

[Claim 12]

The remote medical reading system as set forth in claim 11, wherein the step (a-1) comprises the step of the requester computer selecting two images from among cervix images acquired through enlarged image capturing.

[Claim 13]

The remote medical reading system as set forth in claim 11, wherein the step (a-4) comprises the step of, if a failure occurs in a network, and thus the ^Λrequest file' cannot be sent, the requester computer automatically storing the ^λrequest file, ' and the step of, if the network is recovered from the failure, reading the stored ^Λrequest file, ' and resending the stored ^request file' to the operator server.

[Claim 14]

The remote medical reading system as set forth in claim 10, wherein the step (b) is configure such that, if the operator server sends the ^request file' in an ' Immediate reading request after transmission' mode, it is impossible to correct the ^λrequest file' because the ^request file' is sent from the requester computer with the evaluator designated, and, if the ^request file' is received in an ^λOnly transmission' mode, the evaluator is selected in order of reading priority preset by a requester or a hospital and the patient' s basic information is corrected if erroneous input information is found .

[Claim 15]

The remote medical reading system as set forth in claim 10, wherein the step (c) comprises, if the operator server receives the 'request file' in an 'Only transmission' mode, preparing the request for a test by reading a chart number, a resident registration number and a name from the ^λrequest file' and selecting the evaluator on order of reading priority, and, if the operator server receives the 'request file' in an 'Immediate reading request after transmission' mode, preparing the request for a test by reading relevant values from the 'request file' and inputting the evaluator designated by the requester.

[Claim 16]

The remote medical reading system as set forth in claim 10, wherein the step (d) comprises:

(d-1) the evaluator computer checking the ^Λrequest file' sent from the operator server, and performing reading while portions of medical interest using a toolbox;

(d-2) the evaluator computer checking the images, and creating the 'read file' by entering comments;

(d-3) the evaluator computer correcting values of the 'read file' ; and (d-4) the evaluator computer sending the 'read file' to the operator server .

[Claim 17]

The remote medical reading system as set forth in claim

16, further comprising, after the step (d-2), the step of the evaluator computer determining whether to share the ^λread file, ' thereby allowing other evaluators to use it as learning material .

[Claim 18]

The remote medical reading system as set forth in claim 10, wherein the step (e-2) is configured to designate the evaluator in order of reading priority preset by a patient or a requester.