Interested in learning more about imaging core labs? Then you’re in the right place! In this article, we run through the basics of imaging core labs and exactly what they do…
What Is An Imaging Core Lab And What Do They Do?
A clinical trial imaging core lab is a specialized laboratory that provides an array of services related to the collection and interpretation of medical images such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computerised tomography (CT) scans. This type of lab is essential for the safe and thorough administration of clinical trials because they help to provide accurate data collection and analysis.
An Imaging Core Laboratory (ICL) is an organization that offers specialized and comprehensive imaging services to clinical trials. They provide services such as data management, image analysis, training and troubleshooting related to the acquisition and analysis of imaging data during the course of a trial (all via a specialist Clinical Trial Imaging Management System (CTIMS).
High-quality imaging capabilities are essential to producing reliable results and assessing safety in clinical trials. The ICL’s primary objective is to ensure that images are acquired accurately and consistently across different sites participating in the trial.
What Are The Benefits Of An Imaging Core Lab?
An imaging core lab enables clinicians to acquire, analyse, and interpret images more efficiently and accurately. It creates a hub for organizing clinical trial data in one place, resulting in better organization and communication of data between clinical sites.
This also makes it easier to identify discrepancies or problems with the trial itself. By providing these services, imaging core labs play an important role in the production of accurate results that help to improve patient and treatment outcomes.
How Does An Imaging Core Lab Participate In Clinical Trials?
An imaging core lab participates in clinical trials by providing services such as training and data management, image analysis, and organization of raw data. Radiologists working for the lab will evaluate images for accuracy, reliability, and scientific integrity.
They’ll also provide feedback to trial investigators, if needed, to ensure data quality is high. Additionally, they’ll be responsible for troubleshooting any issues that arise related to image acquisition or analysis during the course of the trial.
Regulatory Considerations For Clinical Trial Imaging Labs
Clinical trial imaging labs must comply with regulations and standards set forth by both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines.
These guidelines aim to ensure that clinical trials are conducted safely, ethically, and in accordance with rigorously established protocols. An imaging core laboratory must remain compliant at each step of the data collection process, starting from patient enrolment to image acquisition and interpretation.
Use Imaging Core Labs And Leverage Technology To Optimize Efficiency
Imaging Core Labs (ICLs) use advanced imaging technology to help reduce cost and minimize errors. By leveraging automated software and cloud-based systems, ICLs reduce hours from the imaging process whilst increase accuracy.
Integration of new imaging AI tools for both clinical reading and workflow management are becoming essential too. Automation also allows the imaging core laboratory staff to focus on important tasks such as image analysis, data validation and interpretation. Additionally, cloud computing provides access to large datasets for clinical trials, allowing better integration among multiple clinical trial sites.
About The Author
Pauric Greenan is an experienced PACS consultant that has been PACS lead on several high-profile PACS projects in both the UK and Ireland. Pauric is internationally available for PACS consulting. Contact him here for more details.
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