OBJECTIVE: To evaluate usefulness of the classification codes and retrieval program of the interpretation of nuclear medicine imaging studies.

METHODS: We retrieved specific results of the interpretation of 3,613 nuclear medicine imaging studies from database server of the Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital using classification code retrieval program or by searching narrative phrases using structured query language(SQL). Accuracy of the retrieved results as well as retrieval time in each group were compared.

RESULTS: Retrieved results using SQL showed lower accuracy than those using classification codes. There was no delay of response or overload of network traffic whether we used either retrieval program or SQL.

CONCLUSION: Retrieval of specific results from database of the interpretation of nuclear medicine imaging studies using classification codes with retrieval program was more accurate and convenient than searching narrative phrases using SQL.