Picture This
Whether it's used in a
laboratory or hospital, film digitizing is a cost-effective, easy
way for radiologists to manage x-rays and other films. Although the
tools to digitize these items have only been around since the early
1990s, the technology behind the process was invented almost 40
years ago.
In October 1969, Bell Laboratories engineers Willard Boyle and
George Smith were working on a new way to store data on
semiconductors. They came up with charge-coupled devices (CCDs),
which could detect and capture light via small photosites on their
surface. The resulting electronic charges could then be digitized,
displayed, and analyzed by a computer.
As CCD technology was improved over the years, its ability to
produce clear, accurate images grew. In the early 1990s, CCD
digitizers for the medical industry used fluorescent bulbs to shine
through the film. CCD arrays served as detectors. Radiologists could
use the units to convert x-rays into accurate, reliable data for
further study. The digital files took up less space and were easier
to manage.
But film digitizing has its detractors. The debate centers on
whether digital images actually make it easier to diagnose disease.
Can a digital version of an analog image accurately show potentially
fatal conditions, such as tumors and blockages?
Going digital does have its
advantages. The digitizing process makes it possible for hospitals
to set up a digital image library. This gives doctors and other
clinical staff instant access to a patient's images. Furthermore,
the silicon technology used in CCD-based units is constantly being
improved in order to increase the yield. And improved technology may
well lead to better image quality.
Next month, the National Academy of Engineering will award the
Charles Stark Draper prize to Boyle and Smith in recognition of
their invention of the CCD. The award is given to honor engineers
whose achievements have significantly benefited society. Considering
the major role that CCD technology has played in the evolution of
medical imaging and patient file management, we think the award is
long overdue.
Corinne Litchfield
Associate Editor,
MPMN
Products from the MPMN Mailbox
The editors of MPMN receive hundreds of press releases on
medical device components each week. Read on for what we thought
were the most eye-catching products and services that have recently
come across our desk.
Rapid Soft Tooling
Temporary Masking Resins
Rotary Encoders
Honing Machine
Aseptic Dispense Valve
E-Newsletter Exclusive
LED Manufacturer Brightens up Surgical Devices
A
high-powered LED lighting system has been modified for use in a
Class 1 medical device. Read more
Read more news features in the January/February 2006 issue of
MPMN.
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