What is Orthanc?
Orthanc is an open-source software for medical imaging, specifically designed for Digital Radiography and Imaging. It provides a comprehensive solution for storing, managing, and retrieving medical images, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans. With Orthanc, healthcare professionals can efficiently manage large amounts of imaging data, ensuring secure and reliable access to patient information.
Main Features
Orthanc offers a range of features that make it an ideal solution for medical imaging, including:
- DICOM support for seamless integration with existing medical imaging infrastructure
- Web-based interface for easy access and management of imaging data
- Support for various image formats, including JPEG, PNG, and TIFF
- Advanced security features, such as encryption and access controls, to ensure patient data protection
Installation Guide
System Requirements
Before installing Orthanc, ensure that your system meets the following requirements:
- Operating System: Windows, macOS, or Linux
- Processor: 2 GHz or faster
- Memory: 4 GB or more
- Storage: 10 GB or more of free disk space
Download and Installation
Download the Orthanc installer from the official website and follow these steps:
- Run the installer and follow the prompts to select the installation location
- Choose the components to install, such as the Orthanc server and web interface
- Configure the database and storage settings
- Start the Orthanc server and access the web interface
Offline Repository Setup for Resilient Backups
Why Offline Repository?
An offline repository provides an additional layer of protection for your medical imaging data, ensuring that it remains safe even in the event of a disaster or system failure.
Setting up an Offline Repository
To set up an offline repository for Orthanc, follow these steps:
- Create a separate storage device, such as an external hard drive or USB drive
- Configure the Orthanc server to store backups on the offline repository
- Set up a regular backup schedule to ensure that data is regularly backed up
Importing Files into Orthanc
Supported File Formats
Orthanc supports a range of file formats, including DICOM, JPEG, PNG, and TIFF.
Importing Files
To import files into Orthanc, follow these steps:
- Access the Orthanc web interface and navigate to the import page
- Select the files to import and choose the destination folder
- Configure any additional settings, such as image compression and anonymization
Technical Specifications
System Architecture
Orthanc is built on a modular architecture, consisting of the following components:
- Orthanc Server: responsible for managing and storing medical imaging data
- Orthanc Web Interface: provides a user-friendly interface for accessing and managing imaging data
- Database: stores metadata and configuration information
Security Features
Orthanc provides advanced security features to ensure patient data protection, including:
- Encryption: protects data both in transit and at rest
- Access controls: restricts access to authorized personnel only
- Audit logs: tracks all system activity
Pros and Cons
Pros
Orthanc offers several benefits, including:
- Open-source and free to download and use
- Highly customizable and extensible
- Supports a range of file formats and imaging modalities
Cons
Orthanc also has some limitations, including:
- Steep learning curve due to complex features and settings
- Requires significant system resources and storage space
- May require additional configuration and customization for specific use cases
FAQ
Q: Is Orthanc free to use?
A: Yes, Orthanc is open-source and free to download and use.
Q: What file formats does Orthanc support?
A: Orthanc supports a range of file formats, including DICOM, JPEG, PNG, and TIFF.
Q: Can I use Orthanc for commercial purposes?
A: Yes, Orthanc can be used for commercial purposes, but it is subject to the terms and conditions of the open-source license.
