The digital computer: the role of functional imaging in radiology

Over the past decade there has been an increase in the use of functional imaging. This is mainly because of the recent introduction of the digital computer, which is capable of processing measured data into images that are related to a physiological process or the function of an organ. This is a departure from the more traditional images that are mostly based on anatomical detail. The radiologist needs to become familiar with these new imaging concepts, since a continued growth in their use is inevitable.