An assessment of a computerized reporting system (SIREP)

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Abstract
The prototype of a computerized radiological reporting system (SIREP) is assessed. The system is operated by a radiologist by touching a glass surface; on this surface the image of 1 of 165 slides each containing relevant words and phrases to the radiographs is projected. The report is shown on a television screen and is typed automatically when completed. The system was installed in the X-ray Department serving the Accident and Emergency Service of the Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol, UK, after the sequences and times were determined using conventional methods. The most time consuming factor was deciding whether a film was normal or abnormal. Since no storage or analysis of reports existed, the system directly affected only the radiologist and the secretary. For an average of 100 reports daily a secretary saved 64 min of typing and a radiologist needed 63 min longer for reporting. In general the system was mechanically reliable in operation with a maximum slide transit time of 3 s. All radiologists using the machine found that the reporting terminal was simple to operate, but the reporting abnormalities caused increased effort and longer time. None of the radiologist would use the machine in preference to traditional methods; no cost or time benefit was established.