Medical Imaging
Medical Imaging
Medical imaging is a branch of biomedical engineering that deals with creating images of the human body (or any other biological system) for clinical purposes. Medical imaging is the sum total of disciplines like radiology, endoscopy, thermography, medical photography and microscopy. Electroencephalography and electrocardiography can also be considered as medical imaging techniques. Though these techniques do not involve creating images of the body parts, the data measured can be represented with the help of images.
Medical imaging, as a field, owes its origin to the discovery of X-rays by Roentgen. Ever since their discovery, X-rays have been used to detect diseases of bones. X-rays can also detect pathologies of soft tissues. Developments like the discovery of radioactive tracers and the invention of powerful microscopes have also contributed to the field of medical imaging.
Modern medical imaging makes use of a variety of tools like fluoroscopy, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, ultrasound scanning and electron microscopy. Most of these techniques have become very common at hospitals. These are used to detect a range of diseases like tumors, internal bleeding, stones, organ malfunction, etc. Magnetic resonance imaging is used to detect problems of the brain and spinal cord. Ultrasound is commonly used to monitor the fetus during pregnancy.
Computers play a very important role in the field of medical imaging. Image processing is the core element of medical imaging. Developments in the field of computer science will lead to developments in the field of medical imaging. Better and faster algorithms and faster computing speeds mean improved efficiency in medical imaging. Active research in underway to develop newer and better imaging techniques. Development of better techniques will greatly enhance health care.
Related pages:
- Electrocardiogram [ECG]
- Electroencephalogram [EEG]
- How does ultrasound work?
- Ultrasound
- Computed tomography [CT Imaging]
- Magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]
- Positron emission tomography [PET]
- Commonly Used Radionuclides in Nuclear Medicine
