More about the research area of Radiology and imaging

The role of radiology

Radiology plays a highly central role in clinical healthcare in the investigation, diagnosis, and follow-up of a wide range of medical conditions. It is also increasingly important in the treatment of various conditions through minimally invasive, image-guided procedures. Radiology has therefore evolved from being a purely diagnostic discipline to one that also encompasses a variety of therapeutic methods, including catheter-based balloon angioplasty, stenting of vascular stenoses and aortic aneurysms, embolization of vascular malformations and hemorrhages, drainage of fluid collections and obstructed duct systems, and percutaneous radiofrequency treatment of tumors.

Traditional morphological radiology is also becoming increasingly focused on functional diagnostics. This development is reflected in the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare’s establishment of the specialty Imaging and Functional Medicine, which combines medical radiology, clinical physiology, and nuclear medicine. Imaging and Functional Medicine constitutes the base specialty, with subspecialties in neuroradiology, clinical physiology, and nuclear medicine.

Relevant to all clinical specialties

Radiology is one of the largest clinical specialties in healthcare, with more than 1,000 specialist physicians. It interacts with virtually all clinical specialties and is represented at every emergency hospital in Sweden.

The specialty includes X-ray–based techniques such as conventional radiography (plain radiography, urography, phlebography, and others), angiography, and computed tomography (CT), as well as examinations using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, gamma cameras (scintigraphy), and positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography (PET/CT).

Strong technological development and new methods

Technological advances in radiology have been exceptionally rapid over recent decades, driven by new and improved technologies, the development of novel contrast agents, the introduction of image-guided minimally invasive treatment methods, and the digitalization of imaging workflows.

The ability to use computer technology for post-processing image data, generating three-dimensional images, and analyzing functional processes has also become increasingly important for efficient and accurate diagnostics. The discovery of X-rays was recognized with the first Nobel Prize in Physics in 1901, while the development of both computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging for clinical use was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1979 and 2003, respectively.

New technologies, contrast agents, and applications for radiological diagnostics and image-guided treatment place substantial demands on research and development. Continuous evaluation is essential to ensure that new technologies can be safely introduced into clinical practice and that new indications provide genuine benefits to patients and healthcare systems.

The digitalization of radiology departments

The digitalization of radiology departments means that virtually all imaging information is now accessible throughout the healthcare pathway and can be reviewed with patients during consultations in primary care or specialist outpatient settings.

The increased availability of radiological image data places greater demands on knowledge of radiological diagnostics. For example, general practitioners are increasingly expected to explain imaging findings directly to patients during consultations. The growing use of radiological diagnostics to confirm or exclude disease, combined with the broader dissemination of imaging information, also increases the need for education in radiology for both medical students and practicing clinicians.

Involved in several educational programs

The subject area of Radiology is responsible for undergraduate education in radiology within the Medical Programme. It also contributes to the education of radiographers and participates in the continuing professional development of several other healthcare professions.

Research in radiology

Research in radiology is predominantly clinically oriented and patient-centered, conducted in close collaboration with a wide range of clinical specialties. Research activities focus on mapping disease prevalence and studying and characterizing diseases and their progression.

Given the exceptionally rapid and dynamic technological development within radiology, an important research task is also to evaluate new imaging methods and determine their role in clinical healthcare. Radiological investigations are frequently incorporated into research projects and clinical drug trials initiated by other medical specialties or by the pharmaceutical industry. Radiology therefore plays an important and extensive supporting role in such projects.

Text: Mikael Hellström, Senior Professor and Advisor
(Translated by ChatGPT EDU)