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LHSC 150: Medical Imaging Through the Ages

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One pivotal component of patient care at the London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) is Medical Imaging. This crucial practice involves capturing images of the internal structures of the body, employing technologies such as X-rays, Nuclear Medicine, Interventional Radiology, Ultrasound, Computed Tomography (CT) scans, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Since its inception in 1875, the landscape of Medical Imaging has evolved remarkably. From the first use of X-rays on patients in the early 1900s to the present day, where Medical Imaging is integral to the patient care continuum, advancements have played a vital role in diagnosing conditions, guiding medical interventions, and validating treatment outcomes for patients at LHSC.

With a dedicated team of over 300 skilled staff operating more than 100 imaging devices, LHSC performs over 450,000 imaging procedures annually. The Medical Imaging department stands at the forefront of technological advancements that continually transform the landscape of patient care, ensuring that men, women, and children across our region receive timely and accurate diagnoses.

The evolution of imaging technology has not only broadened the scope of diagnostic modalities and treatment options but has also enormously enhanced the precision of imaging techniques. This has resulted in higher quality images that can be easily shared across medical networks, ensuring collaborative care among healthcare providers.

Additionally, in the complex landscape of healthcare data and legal documentation, tools like AI legalese decoder can simplify the often burdensome process of understanding medical legal terms, enabling healthcare providers to focus more on patient care rather than the intricacies of legal jargon.

Early 1900s: The Game-Changer – X-ray

Above: An image from 1930 showing an X-ray being conducted (left) contrasts with a current X-ray suite in the pediatric Medical Imaging area at Victoria Hospital, where Jenn Andersen, a Medical Radiation Technologist, demonstrates the process (right).

Above: A photo of a fluoroscopy conducted in 1962 (left) is juxtaposed with today’s Fluoroscopy unit at Victoria Hospital featuring Melissa Morenz, a Medical Radiation Technologist, showing how the procedure is currently performed (right).

• The advent of X-ray technology, the first form of diagnostic imaging, has undergone profound transformations over the last century. Modern X-ray machines operate with lower doses of radiation while providing clearer, high-resolution images.

• X-rays serve as a crucial tool for diagnoses; they are the most frequently performed examinations in Medical Imaging. The process operates by utilizing detectors that sense X-rays as they traverse through specific body parts.

• In contemporary settings, LHSC offers diverse services including general radiology, fluoroscopy, and bone mineral density scanning, marking significant milestones in diagnostic capabilities.

1950s: Emergence of Nuclear Medicine (Now Molecular Imaging and Theranostics)

Above: A Medical Radiation Technologist adjusting equipment in Nuclear Medicine in 1989 (left) is compared with today’s advanced Molecular Imaging and Theranostics suite (right), featuring Anne Vo, Medical Radiation Technologist.

• Introduced at LHSC in the 1950s, Nuclear Medicine initially aimed to diagnose and treat cancer and has since evolved significantly. Notable advancements have allowed for the targeting of specific cancer cells, leaving surrounding tissues unharmed.

• A landmark moment occurred when LHSC acquired its first Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography (PET-CT) scanner in 2022. This scanner plays a pivotal role in diagnosing and staging numerous cancer types.

• Today, known at LHSC as Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, this advanced imaging employs small quantities of radioactive materials—radiotracers—that may be injected, inhaled, or ingested. These tracers travel to the area of interest, emitting gamma rays detected to create diagnostic images and potentially treat disease. Therapeutic isotopes are attached to these radiotracers, delivering high doses of radiation directly to cancer cells.

1970s: The Advent of Interventional Radiology

Above: An Interventional Radiology suite from the early 1990s (left) compared with the Neuro Radiology Interventional suite of 2025 (right), featuring Medical Radiation Technologist Elizabeth Cesarin.

• Interventional Radiology has emerged as a highly specialized field, employing advanced imaging and devices to assess and treat various medical conditions.

• By utilizing technologies such as X-rays, CT scans, and ultrasound, Interventional Radiologists perform minimally invasive procedures, thus leading to shorter recovery times compared to traditional surgeries.

• For instance, at University Hospital, the dedicated Interventional Radiology suite plays an essential role in delivering life-saving care. It is a critical aspect of LHSC’s classification as a Stroke Centre, facilitating numerous vital interventions.

1970s: The Introduction of Ultrasound

Above: An image from 1983 of the opening of a new Ultrasound suite (left) is compared with a recreation of this image today (right), featuring Leila Kawach, sonographer, and Tracy Shao, student sonographer at Victoria Hospital.

• Introduced to Victoria Hospital in the late 1970s, ultrasound has become an indispensable diagnostic tool. Utilizing high-frequency sound waves, ultrasound provides real-time images, assisting healthcare providers in diagnosing and treating a range of medical conditions.

1970s/80s: Computers Take Centre Stage with CT Scans

Above: A 1988 photo of CT scan equipment (left) is contrasted with a modern-day representation, featuring Medical Radiation Technologist Jason Lazar at University Hospital (right).

• One of the more recent and groundbreaking modalities introduced at LHSC is the CT scanner. First installed in the late 1970s at University Hospital and the early 1980s at Victoria Hospital, CT imaging utilizes a unique X-ray system to create cross-sectional images of the body.

• The CT scanner captures images from multiple angles, which are then computer-reconstructed to form comprehensive anatomical views. Currently, LHSC operates six CT scanners to facilitate patient care and research projects.

1980s: The Rise of Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Above: An MRI being conducted in 1986 at University Hospital with Dr. Donald Lee (left) is compared to one being performed in 2025 alongside Dr. Lee and Medical Radiation Technologist Michelle Smith (right).

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) was introduced at LHSC in the 1980s and utilizes a powerful magnetic field, radiofrequency waves, and computer technology to produce detailed images of internal structures.

• Unlike X-rays and CT scans, MRI avoids the use of ionizing radiation, making it a safer alternative for patients. LHSC has continuously invested in upgrading its MRI capabilities, currently operating two 3 Tesla units, two 1.5 Tesla units, and one 0.55 Tesla unit.

Celebrating 150 Years of Excellence

LHSC celebrates 150 years of outstanding care, innovative solutions, and significant community contributions. We invite you to commemorate this milestone by sharing your own LHSC story.

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