Screen film processing systems for medical radiography: a historical review

Since Roentgen first experimented with radiation to produce a radiographic image, many milestones have been reached in the design and manufacture of intensifying screens, medical x-ray films, film processors and chemicals. As a result, high-quality medical radiographs are obtainable today at very low radiation dose. This progress is the result of major contributions and the collaborative efforts of many individuals in industries, universities, and medical institutions involved in basic research, development and manufacturing. This article highlights some of the major advances in the evolution of screen-film-processor chemical systems for medical radiography. Photographs, radiographs, and scientific data are included which illustrate some of the major achievements.