Smaller format, laser camera—generated images: Acceptability and cost savings

To evaluate the use of laser-generated smaller images in neuroradiologic practice. Computed tomographic (CT) scans of the heads of five subjects were obtained at bone and brain windows in three formats: 12:1 (12 images on a 35 × 43-cm film), 15:1, and 20:1. Two laser-camera systems were used. Images were measured, physically separated, and reconstructed as a 35 × 43-cm ensemble; they were presented randomly to seven radiologists who assessed image size and interpretability. Observer preference was also noted. One camera system was evaluated for contrast and spatial resolution by a medical physicist. There were negligible differences in image area between the 15:1 and 20:1 formats. No discernible differences in quality were found among the three formats. The 12:1 images were preferred by the radiologists, but the 20:1 images were deemed acceptable. Annualized cost savings of 46.7%, or $46,650, were projected for adoption of the 20:1 image format for neuroradiologic CT and magnetic resonance imaging. No major differences were detected in image area between the 15:1 and the 20:1 image formats or in image quality among the three formats. Use of a smaller image format may result in substantial cost savings.