Imaging and diagnostics are two of the most important pillars of modern medicine. Imaging procedures enable doctors to gain deep insights into the human body in order to detect diseases at an early stage and make precise diagnoses. These are either radiation-based (X-ray, computed tomography (CT), radiography, scintigraphy, functional imaging) or radiation-free (magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound). Radioactive contrast media are sometimes used in some radiation-based procedures.
These technologies have enabled considerable progress in radiology. They make a significant contribution to finding disease foci and planning interventions. As they are non-invasive, they make a significant contribution to improving the health, well-being and quality of life of patients.
Thanks to the continuous development and use of new methods, imaging has become indispensable. Technologies such as MRI and CT enable detailed sectional imaging of tissues and organs in ever higher resolution. This means that even the smallest findings, such as tumors in the early stages, can be detected. In neurology, the imaging of the brain and its functions with a magnetic field is becoming better and better resolved. Angiology and cardiology, on the other hand, benefit from the real-time imaging of fine blood vessels or of the blood circulation and heart.
The future of imaging will be enhanced by the integration of 3D and holographic technologies that enable the free, three-dimensional viewing of data in space. Virtual reality (VR) applications will provide doctors with an immersive diagnostic experience, more comprehensive patient information and better planning of interventions. Finally, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning will automate and simplify the analysis of images.
Incidentally, some of the imaging and diagnostic procedures commonly used today have their origins in space medicine.