How to correctly identify a scout image

[Gian]

Hi all,

I'm having trouble finding information on the best (ie, most reliable) way of separating a scout image from a data set.

I have a collection of files, each file has the same Study UID and Series UID. Previously, it has been possible to use the Image Type fields (Pixel, Patient Exam and Modality characteristics) to determine which images are part of what data set (ie, AXIAL, SECONDARY, LOCALIZER etc). In this case however, the fields are all the same (is this even valid?).

One approach that seems to work is to look at the Image Orientation (Patient) and look for images with the same orientation. Logically this would seem to be correct, but I'm wondering if there is a better way?

Any suggestions appreciated!

Thanks,
Gian

[Marco Eichelberg]

This question would better be posted to news:comp.protocols.dicom where you will probably find better qualified answers that we can provide.