VA physician and innovator Dr. William Oldendorf significantly contributed to the creation of the CT scanner. Known previously as a CAT (Computer-Assisted Tomography) scan, a CT (Computer Tomography) is used to take images of the brain, which makes it possible for a doctor to ‘see’ more of the body’s soft tissues, something not visible in ordinary X-rays.
Oldendorf built a CT scan prototype in 1961 with “an old model-railroad track” among other materials in his garage. In 1963 he received a patent for his idea. His research was groundbreaking, and allowed patients, many of them Veterans whom Dr. Oldendorf treated at the Los Angeles VA Hospital, to be evaluated for brain tumors and injuries. He later won the prestigious Lasker Award in 1975 for his work.
For more on the CT scanner Oldendorf developed, check out the #VAHistory in 100 Objects entry:
#VAHistory #NuclearMedicine #MedicalHistory #VeteransHistory
Author: Veterans Health Administration
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News post in December 20, 2024, 3:05 am.
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