

We have tested may different applications (so you don't have to) and the following are our best picks.


We grouped them according to the operating system used because unfortunately there aren't any free viewers that run on both!DICOM stands for 'Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine'. It is the standard for handling, storing, printing, and transmitting information in medical imaging. DICOM viewing software allows radiology trainees and consultants to view and manipulate medical images (such as radiographs or MRI scans) on their own PC, laptop or tablet. In the hospital environment, this forms part of the picture archiving and communication system (PACS), which doctors will be familiar with!A popular software for radiologists working in the UK is currently a programme called 'Horos'. This is a free open source version of the software used by the Royal College of Radiologists for the viva part of the Final FRCR 2B exam, so obviously it makes sense to use it for teaching as well. This programme is only available on Apple computers, hence why so many radiologists own MacBooks.There is a paid version of Horos called 'OsiriX MD', which is produced by Pixmeo, however it is expensive so not ideal for basic teaching purposes, although has great functionality.
