Pulmonary functional imaging (PFI): A historical review and perspective

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Functional Imaging (PFI)
• Medical Imaging
• Respiratory Physiology

Background:

• Pulmonary Functional Imaging (PFI) is crucial for assessing lung function.
• Understanding ventilation, perfusion, gas exchange, and biomechanics is vital.
• Historical context and recent advancements in PFI are essential for clinical application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive introduction to Pulmonary Functional Imaging (PFI).
• To review the historical development and recent advances in PFI techniques.
• To outline the clinical requirements and challenges associated with PFI.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical literature on PFI.
• Analysis of recent technological advancements in PFI modalities.
• Synthesis of clinical perspectives on PFI requirements and challenges.

Main Results:

• Detailed overview of PFI's historical evolution.
• Catalog of diverse PFI techniques across various imaging modalities.
• Identification of current challenges and future clinical needs for PFI.

Conclusions:

• PFI encompasses visualization and measurement of key lung functions.
• The review highlights PFI's progress and diverse methodologies.
• Addressing clinical challenges is key for PFI's future integration.