It has been 124 years since the X-ray debuted in November 1895. First discovered by eventual Nobel Prize winner Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen, the very first X-ray was conducted for an industrial application. Roentgen initially formulated a radiograph of a boxed weight set to demonstrate his discovery to his colleagues. 

Two weeks later, the renowned scientist would produce the first X-ray image of the human body: an image of his wife’s hand. In December 1895, this would become the first medical imaging photo to be published for the earliest article on the topic. Since then, the X-ray has transformed the medical field and continues to do so as advancements develop.

The Progression of X-ray Technology 

X-ray technology is a life-saving tool that can detect changes to the human body, monitor the progression of diseases, and even aid in life-saving emergency medical procedures. Interestingly, the fundamental technology behind the X-ray itself had not seen any significant change since the 1980s, with the introduction of high-frequency generators.

In the early days of the discovery of X-rays, the associated effects of the radiation from the rays were unknown. People working with this technology were prone to such effects as eye and skin irritation. Today, there have been progressions in the area, to the point that the radiation dose required is significantly reduced, thereby ensuring that X-rays are safe for use on the human body. 

The discovery of the X-ray in the medical field has also led to the implementation of newer imaging techniques such as Computed Tomography (CT), which has become essential in the diagnosis of some more complex medical issues. 

In addition to CT, the areas of angiography and fluoroscopy utilize varying types of X-ray systems. In 2015, Siemens launched new robotic X-ray room technology, which was designed to be an all-in-one machine capable of undertaking various imaging applications.

Advancements and Possibilities for the Future

Before the launch of the robotic X-ray room technology in 2015, researchers in Massachusetts began testing a linear particle accelerator, capable of providing detailed images of soft tissue. The findings of these experiments were presented at the 13th International Workshop on Micro and Nanotechnology for Power Generation and Energy Conversion Application, held in December 2013.

Conventional X-rays lack the capability of illustrating the detail of soft tissue in the body’s organ system. Images produced by the MIT system would have the ability to find cancerous tissue by examining blood vessels or evaluate ligaments and muscles. The accelerator was also designed to be electronic, thus reducing the heating up time typically associated with traditional X-ray machines, resulting in lower radiation dosage.

In the latest advancement in the field, the world’s first 3D color X-rays of the human body have been produced. Using sensor chip technology developed by CERN, researchers led by Phil and Anthony Butler have developed this new bio-imaging technique. Its capabilities indicate a bright future for the medical industry. 

This 3D scanner can detect detail in bones, lipids, soft tissues, and disease markers in a patient. 3D scanning can help doctors to diagnose, treat, and foresee possible future health issues in individuals. Tests have so far been carried out for cancer, bone, joint health, and vascular diseases, with promising results. Next up, the research team will shift its focus to the orthopedic and rheumatology fields.

Detection of diseases and treatment methods are sure to improve once the testing phases conclude and advanced equipment becomes operational. The future of X-ray technology is full of exciting possibilities as teams continue to research and discover new advancements in the field.