X rays in diagnostic radiology

An overview of the technical developments in and growth of the diagnostic use of x rays over the century since their discovery is presented. The major developments described include the introduction of the hot cathode x-ray tube, the Potter-Bucky grid, the image intensifier, the computerized tomographic scanner, and the adoption of the digital computer for image processing, display, and storage. Other significant but smaller advances discussed include improved film/screen technology, the rotating anode tube, linear tomography, and some recent advances in image receptors.