Abstract: A system for processing a radiograph such as an x-ray includes a scanner, a computer with monitor for displaying a digital copy of the radiograph and pet-forming a number of enhancements. The computer stores the digitized image in memory in such a way that it cannot be modified, stores temporarily a second copy of the image in random access memory for display, and stores the enhancements separately in a data file so that, each time the user wishes to see an enhanced image, the enhancements are applied to the displayed digital image as an overlay, rather than being stored as a copy of the enhanced image. Less space is required for storage when only the unenhanced image and the enhancements are stored than if the unenhanced and the enhanced images are stored. Furthermore, not only is the unenhanced image available for a variety of purposes (stored in such a way that it cannot be modified), but the enhancements that are made to produce the enhanced, displayed image are reproduced the same way each time.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for evaluating a radiograph, such as an X-ray being diagnosed for chiropractic treatment. The apparatus includes a scanner, a monitor, a central processing unit, user interface equipment, a laser printer and a modem. The X-ray is scanned by the scanner that generates a series of binary values for each segment of the X-ray and representing the relative transparency of each segment. The CPU receives the binary values and constructs a bitmap corresponding to the X-ray image for display on the monitor. Then the CPU enables the user to enhance the image on the monitor to assist in extracting information related to the analysis, diagnosis and prognosis of the condition indicated by the features of the X-ray. Enhancements include increasing brightness, contrast, edge detection and histogrammic equalization. The enhanced image can be used to determine relationships among the features by their separation distance and orientation with respect to each other.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for evaluating a radiograph, such as an X-ray being diagnosed for chiropractic treatment. The apparatus includes a scanner, a monitor, a central processing unit, user interface equipment, a laser printer and a modem. The X-ray is scanned by the scanner that generates a series of binary values for each segment of the X-ray and representing the relative transparency of each segment. The CPU receives the binary values and constructs a bitmap corresponding to the X-ray image for display on the monitor. Then the CPU enables the user to enhance the image on the monitor to assist in extracting information related to the analysis, diagnosis and prognosis of the condition indicated by the features of the X-ray. Enhancements include increasing brightness, contrast, edge detection and histogrammic equalization. The enhanced image can be used to determine relationships among the features by their separation distance and orientation with respect to each other.