title: Medical physics: some recollections in diagnostic X-ray imaging and therapeutic radiology.
abstract: Medical physics has changed dramatically since 1895. There was a period of slow evolutionary change during the first 70 years after Roentgen's discovery of x rays. With the advent of the computer, however, both diagnostic and therapeutic radiology have undergone rapid growth and changes. Technologic advances such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in diagnostic imaging and three-dimensional treatment planning systems, stereotactic radiosurgery, and intensity modulated radiation therapy in radiation oncology have resulted in substantial changes in medical physics. These advances have improved diagnostic imaging and radiation therapy while expanding the need for better educated and experienced medical physics staff.
authors: Department of Business and Clinical Development, Lorad, a Hologic Company, 36 Apple Ridge Rd, Danbury, CT 06810, USA. MammoMan@Loradmedical.com
authors: J E
authors: JE
authors: Gray
authors: C G
authors: CG
authors: Orton
mesh_terms: D002568:Certification / Q000266:history; D049672:History, 19th Century; D049673:History, 20th Century; D009656:North America; D010506:Periodicals as Topic / Q000266:history; D010825:Physics / Q000266:history; D011859:Radiography / Q000266:history* / Q000639:trends; D011871:Radiology / Q000193:education / Q000266:history / Q000592:standards; D011878:Radiotherapy / Q000266:history* / Q000639:trends