Feasibility Analysis of Fifth-generation (5G) Mobile Networks for Transmission of Medical Imaging Data

TL;DR

This paper evaluates the feasibility of using 5G networks for transmitting medical imaging data, demonstrating achievable data rates and discussing future enhancements like network slicing.

Contribution

It provides an empirical analysis of 5G's capabilities for medical data transfer using current hardware and software, highlighting practical data rates and potential improvements.

Findings

Achieves 100 Mbit/s upload rates with consumer hardware

Maintains an average throughput of 50 Mbit/s for medical images

Analyzes radio frequency characteristics during transmission

Abstract

Next to higher data rates and lower latency, the upcoming fifth-generation mobile network standard will introduce a new service ecosystem. Concepts such as multi-access edge computing or network slicing will enable tailoring service level requirements to specific use-cases. In medical imaging, researchers and clinicians are currently working towards higher portability of scanners. This includes i) small scanners to be wheeled inside the hospital to the bedside and ii) conventional scanners provided via trucks to remote areas. Both use-cases introduce the need for mobile networks adhering to high safety standards and providing high data rates. These requirements could be met by fifth-generation mobile networks. In this work, we analyze the feasibility of transferring medical imaging data using the current state of development of fifth-generation mobile networks (3GPP Release 15). We demonstrate the potential of reaching 100 Mbit/s upload rates using already available consumer-grade hardware. Furthermore, we show an effective average data throughput of 50 Mbit/s when transferring medical images using out-of-the-box open-source software based on the Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) standard. During transmissions, we sample the radio frequency bands to analyse the characteristics of the mobile radio network. Additionally, we discuss the potential of new features such as network slicing that will be introduced in forthcoming releases.