Which system handles archiving and distribution of sonographic images using a DICOM format?

• A. VHS
• B. PACS
• C. USB
• D. DVD

Answer: (B)

This topic is about how medical images are stored and shared within a healthcare setting using the DICOM format. DICOM, or Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine, is the universal standard for capturing, storing, printing, and transmitting medical images and their related patient data. The system that handles archiving, indexing, retrieval, and distribution of these images across departments and even across facilities is PACS—the Picture Archiving and Communication System. PACS links imaging devices like ultrasound machines to a centralized archive and to viewing workstations, enabling quick access, long-term storage, and seamless sharing of studies for diagnosis and consultation.

Older media like VHS are analog and not compatible with modern DICOM workflows. Simple storage options such as USB drives or DVDs can hold image files, but they don’t provide the integrated, networked imaging workflow, patient metadata management, or institution-wide distribution that PACS offers.