From Voxels to Data: Unpacking IMAGE-CHD-From Voxels to Data: Unpacking IMAGE-CHD

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The webinar introduced ImageCHD, a multi-center research consortium led by Dr. Jonathan Soslow to streamline pediatric and congenital heart disease imaging studies. Dr. Soslow explained that ImageCHD was created to solve major barriers in multi-site research, especially slow contract negotiation, data use agreements, IRB approvals, and the loss of data after studies end. The consortium is designed as infrastructure—not a single study—to support retrospective and prospective projects, registries, and image analysis using de-identified DICOM data.  <br /><br />Each participating site signs a DUA with the consortium and can then join approved studies through streamlined study agreements. A steering committee reviews feasibility and a broader consortium committee gives final approval. Current efforts focus on an umbrella IRB for retrospective studies and early registries. Blood/tissue collection is not currently supported, and clinical trials would require further discussion.  <br /><br />Dr. Laura Olivieri and Dr. Rebecca highlighted how ImageCHD reduces regulatory burden, enables collaboration, and supports junior faculty and fellows. They emphasized that de-identification simplifies compliance and that local champions in legal, IRB, and IT offices are key to joining. The consortium is currently free to join, with the possibility of future fees to support operations.

Keywords

ImageCHD

pediatric heart disease imaging

congenital heart disease

multi-center research consortium

de-identified DICOM data

data use agreements

IRB approvals

retrospective studies

image analysis