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100 years of X-rays
F. Jensen
The discovery of X-rays changed our whole conception of the structure of matter, paving the way for quantum physics and the theories of relativity. In addition to their ability to penetrate the human body, X-rays provide new insights into the structure of the atom, and the composition of stars. Applications include nondestructive testing and radiation therapy, as well as diagnostic imaging. Experience gained with X-rays in diagnostic imaging has also led to such new imaging techniques as CT and MRI, as well as techniques currently under development. The article concludes with an extrapolation of current trends.
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General radiology: the first century... and after
C.B.A.J. Puylaert, J.B.C.M. Puylaert and P.F.G.M. van Waes
This article traces the development of general radiography, from the first vague shadows of skeletal hands to modern modalities offering three-dimensional images of organs, with their tissues and blood supplies identified in colour. Medical imaging had made an important contribution to health care, but in recent years the emphasis has shifted from pure diagnostic to disease staging, localization and navigation. In addition, the development of advanced image processing procedures has created a tendency for the reporting areas to become larger, while the acquisition systems themselves are becoming smaller.
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The role of medical imaging in the management and diagnostic assessment of trauma
F.W. Zonneveld
Many medical imaging modalities are now available for the assessment and management of trauma, each with its own characteristics and associated costs. A brief outline of the historical development of the various imaging techniques is followed by a discussion of the types of trauma encountered in the various anatomical regions, with a review of the appropriate approaches and imaging procedures. Initial assessment of multiple trauma victims includes standard radiography of the cervical spine, chest and pelvis. Further imaging requirements are dictated by the clinical examination
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Interventional radiology: past, present and future
B.T. Katzen
The development of interventional radiology has been a gradual transition from the angiographer to the interventionalist. Initially, the possiblities of interventional radiology were limited by the lack of appropriate tools and instruments. However, with the introduction of image intensifier/TV systems, new catheter materials and contrast agents, and in particular, DSA, interventional radiology has expanded to include a wide range of vascular and nonvascular applications. Innovations such as the use of multiple imaging modalities are likely to expand the scope still further, from the limitations of interventional radiology to the wider concept of interventional medicine.
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Neuroradiology: past, present and future
D. Balériaux
Initially, imaging of the radiolucent soft tissue of the brain within the bones of the skull seemed to present an insuperable problem, and many indirect techniques were developed, based on detecting displacement of structures within the brain. The introduction of CT, in 1972, made it possible to visualize pathological changes in the soft tissue directly. In many cases, even better results were obtained with MR imaging, while the development of DSA facilitated a whole range of interventional procedures. Future developments are expected to include more combinations of diagnosis and treatment, functional imaging, and combinations of modalities.
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Radiology's second century: change and opportunity
C.B. Merritt
This article gives an opinion on the history of radiology with respect to its social and economic impact on health care, and discusses the future possibilities. The effects of technology on patient management and disease processes are compared with current and projected reimbursement practices. The role of the radiologist as consultant and the relationship in the skill mix are seen as trends in increasing versatility in radiology departments. A significant development in diagnostic imaging methods is predicted in the second century of radiology, with new benefits and efficiency brought about by improved communications and global standardization.
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The development of radiology in Japan
T. Kozuka and T. Nobechi
This article describes the history of radiology in Japan, including the way in which the news of the discovery of X-rays reached Japan, and the subsequent developments. The pioneers were anxious to learn the technology from abroad, and developed new technologies to acquire a leading role in the speciality. The individual achievements of the pioneers are described, as well as the way in which their leadership affected much of the development of radiology in subsequent years. The influence of their efforts and examples is still evident with respect to medical science and medical care, both internationally and domestically.
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The role of technology in future medical imaging
F.A. Kuijpers
Since the discovery of X-rays, technological developments have created new possibilities in medical imaging. This article describes established and emerging medical imaging techniques and their applications, and assesses their probable role in the future. The success of new techniques depends mainly on their sensitivity, specificity and cost-effectiveness. The major developments are likely to take place in the existing modalities, where systems can be upgraded to provide new functionality, while information technology will allow integration of images and other information from a wide variety of sources.
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