STAGE works as a comprehensive brain imaging post-processing solution. The STAGE system consists of a dedicated computer connected to the user’s local area network. The computer receives DICOM data from a specific MRI 3D GRE scan protocol (i.e. the STAGE protocol) and then outputs back numerous DICOM datasets with different types of contrast to wherever it received the files from (most likely a PACS server). The STAGE system will not contain any user interface. Instead, the data transfer will be initiated by the user’s current DICOM viewing software. The main method for user communication will be through DICOM output files that contain information in the image data. A method for remote connection to the STAGE computer will be included for updating and troubleshooting when an internet connection is available.
An individual software program or group of programs, routines or algorithms that add specific image processing and/or analysis capabilities to a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system configuration. A basic set of applications programs and routines are included with such computer-controlled imaging systems and they can be upgraded to correct programming errors or to add new system capabilities. Some applications software programs or program packages must be combined with specific hardware or firmware configurations in order to function as intended. Applications program packages are typically identified by a proprietary name and "version" or "upgrade" number.