Imaging studies allow radiologists to gain special and intimate knowledge about the individual undergoing the scan. The experience can be like peering into a crystal ball to see into a patient's past—or potential future.
Human imaging provides a completely different way of looking at people. Whether discovering trauma or tumor, infection or foreign body, radiology removes our superficial distinctions and peers deeper within, studying people from a unique perspective.
Radiologist Cullen Ruff explores the history of medical imaging, from the discovery of X-rays that revolutionized medicine, to newer modalities such as nuclear medicine, computed tomography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging.
Ruff shows examples of how various imaging studies reveal disease. Some cases offer an opportunity to learn not only about patients’ health, but also their lives through the stories their pictures tell. Insights gained through the lens of human imaging reflect a recognition of humanity’s intricacy, complexity, adaptive resilience, and ultimate fragility.
Ruff is an associate professor of medical education at the University of Virginia School of Medicine.
His book Looking Within: Understanding Ourselves through Human Imaging (Torchflame Books) is available for purchase.
Book Sale Information
Patron Information
- If you register multiple individuals, you will be asked to supply individual names and email addresses so they can receive a Zoom link email. Please note that if there is a change in program schedule or a cancellation, we will notify you via email, and it will be your responsibility to notify other registrants in your group.
- Unless otherwise noted, registration for streaming programs typically closes two hours prior to the start time on the date of the program.
- Once registered, patrons should receive an automatic email confirmation from CustomerService@SmithsonianAssociates.org.
- Separate Zoom link information will be emailed closer to the date of the program. If you do not receive your Zoom link information 24 hours prior to the start of the program, please email Customer Service for assistance.
- View Common FAQs about our Streaming Programs on Zoom.
