Belgian imaging software developer Qaelum has launched a new module of Dose - Enterprise Protocol Management at RSNA 2019 in Chicago. The vendor-neutral module is designed to centrally manage and monitor protocols of CT scanners.
The Enterprise Protocol Management module permits protocol standardization so that users can define protocol structure, key settings of a scanner, contrast details, and a corresponding RadLex code.
The module harmonizes protocols, connecting individual protocols of different scanners to master protocols. Protocols are updated and distributed into the work environment to reach technologists working with individual scanners.
The module offers protocol monitoring whereby protocols are monitored to identify any additions, removals, or alterations in individual scanner protocols. Protocol files can be retrieved and analyzed depending on the local situation. The module also allows for changes in protocols in individual CT scanners during an examination, such that a notification is generated, assisting in the justification of an inappropriate dosage.
Overall usage of the scanner protocols can be assessed, and statistics can be produced on the usage of the protocols. The module also contains predefined rules to pinpoint protocols that have not been employed recently or applied to a different population, such as adult versus pediatric, than the population specified by the master protocol.
![Axial images from unenhanced calcium score cardiac CT (left) and curved planar reformation images from CT angiography (right) show that higher long-term exposure to air pollution is associated with greater coronary artery calcium and more obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). Top row: Images in a 68-year-old male patient with higher 10-year mean ambient air pollution exposure (7.9 μg/m3 for particulate matter measuring ≤2.5 μm in diameter [PM2.5] and 17.4 parts per billion [ppb] for NO2) with extensive CAD (coronary artery calcium score [CACS] >1,000 and obstructive CAD [≥70% diameter stenosis]). Bottom row: Images in a 57-year-old female patient with lower 10-year mean ambient air pollution exposure (6.3 μg/m3 for PM2.5 and 4.6 ppb for NO2) with no CAD (CACS = 0 and no obstructive stenosis).](https://img.auntminnie.com/mindful/smg/workspaces/default/uploads/2026/06/hanneman.r6SMLzkezo.png?auto=format%2Ccompress&dpr=2&fit=crop&h=167&q=70&w=250)
