Digital IR imaging capability for medical applications

IR Imaging has changed a great deal since it was last evaluated for medical applications. Systems are much more sensitive and much less expensive. Current uncooled imaging systems, which sell for less than $20,000 in production, are capable of NETDs of 0.05C and are as easy to use as a home video camera. The digital nature of today's imaging systems makes computer analysis and image archiving a straightforward data storage task. All of these advances are driving a reassessment of IR imaging for medical imaging applications. Several informal tests have indicated promise for diagnostic purposes, and trauma applications are being investigated. This paper will present uncooled imager test results and informal medical tests to date, as well as suggest some new areas for further work.