X-ray technology advancements

As recently as my own professors' early careers, the x-ray technology used was not yet digital.  Images had to be developed every time, a variety of added devices were utilized to achieve the desired resolution, and even then, images were simply not as good as they now that the use of digital technology is widespread.  Today's digital technology allows for lower patient dose of radiation and greater control over the image itself.  As if this weren't enough, scientists aim to improve the technology further.  Some targeted issues that they wish to improve are covered in the article I read, titled "Developing radically new technologies for X-ray systems".  They hope to be able to develop x-rays that will require less electricity and cooling power, while still boosting image resolution, even to the point of being able to identify various soft tissue without the use of contrast, to which approximately ten percent of patients are allergic.  Certain exams as they are currently performed could not take advantage of conventional x-ray tubes, because they are susceptible to magnetic fields; the new technology that they are developing would not be subject to this hindrance.  Few are the areas in the medical field where technology's advances are so evident, and its benefits so tantalizingly close.

Developing radically new technologies for X-ray systems. (n.d.). Retrieved February 28, 2016, from http://phys.org/news/2015-02-radically-technologies-x-ray.html