Health Talk: Medical imaging offers 'X-tra' insight into bodies

November 8 is X-ray Day, also known as World Radiography Day (WRD). On this day 129 years ago, Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen discovered X-rays and later took a photograph of his wife's hand. The discovery was groundbreaking as it marked the first time in human history to see inside the human body without surgery.

CGTN spoke to Dr Wang Zhenchang, a member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering. He led his team in developing a bone-specific computed tomography (CT) scanner with ultra-high resolution, up to a 50-micron level of detail, representing a significant leap forward in the ability to diagnose and treat conditions.

Resolution is a constant pursuit for radiologists as enhancing it not only improves the detection of lesions but also facilitates early diagnosis, which is vital for effective intervention strategies and prognosis. Wang emphasized that medical imaging is essential for early detection, particularly in cancer cases where timely intervention can drastically alter outcomes.

Based on symptoms and the objectives of the examination, doctors offer a range of imaging options. For instance, a computed tomographic angiography or ultrasound vascular scan may be recommended for atherosclerosis, while magnetic resonance imaging provides a clearer and more detailed view of brain tissue.

Looking to the future, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into medical imaging is poised to enhance diagnostic accuracy and streamline workflows, Wang said, adding that AI-driven algorithms can assist in identifying anomalies, ensuring that patients receive timely and accurate diagnoses.

(Cover photo designed by Li Wenyi. Video edited by Lu Wei, Chen Hongyu and Li Shuang.)