If the U.S. launches war against Iraq, military physicians in
the new theater will likely use a teleradiology system similar
to one already in use in an Army field hospital in Afghanistan.
While the military won't say what systems they plan to use in
Iraq, it is reasonable to assume the medical apparatus will
resemble the telemedicine system in Afghanistan that, among
other features, supports transmission of digital images via
satellite link. Last year, the field hospital in Bagran,
Afghanistan, established a high-bandwidth satellite connection
with Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany, supporting
telemedicine operations for radiology, dermatology,
ophthalmology, and psychiatry. The teleradiology component is
capable of transmitting high-resolution imaging studies for
consultations and second opinions. Combat radiology support in
Bagran is equipped for x-ray, ultrasound, and CT. The
teleradiology system promises single-day report turnaround,
meaning military hospitals now don't have to transfer every