Description

Biomedical physics, also known as medical physics, is an interdisciplinary field that applies principles of physics to medicine and healthcare. It focuses on the development and application of advanced technologies and techniques for diagnosing, treating and understanding human diseases. Biomedical physicists work at the intersection of physics, biology and medicine, contributing to innovations that enhance patient care and improve health outcomes. The roots of biomedical physics date back to the early 20^th century with the discovery of X-rays by Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen in 1895. This groundbreaking discovery revolutionized medical diagnostics by enabling non-invasive imaging of the human body. The subsequent development of radiation therapy for cancer treatment further established the critical role of physics in medicine. Over the years, advancements in physics, such as the invention of Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET), have significantly expanded the scope and impact of biomedical physics. Medical imaging is a primary focus of biomedical physics, involving the use of various techniques to visualize the internal structures of the body. Utilizes X-rays to produce images of bones and other dense structures. It's widely used for diagnosing fractures, infections and tumors. Combines X-ray images taken from different angles to create cross-sectional images (slices) of the body. CT scans provide detailed information about soft tissues, organs and blood vessels. Uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to generate detailed images of soft tissues, including the brain, muscles and heart. MRI is invaluable for diagnosing neurological disorders, joint problems and cardiovascular diseases. Employs high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images of internal organs and tissues. Ultrasound is commonly used in obstetrics, cardiology and abdominal imaging. Involves the use of radioactive tracers to visualize metabolic processes and detect abnormalities at the cellular level. PET scans are often used in oncology, neurology and cardiology.

Nuclear medicine

Nuclear medicine involves the use of radioactive substances (radiopharmaceuticals) to diagnose and treat diseases. Biomedical physicists contribute to the development and optimization of nuclear medicine techniques. Using radiopharmaceuticals to tvisualize and assess the function of organs and tissues. Common procedures include bone scans, thyroid scans and cardiac stress tests. Treating certain types of cancer and other diseases with targeted radiation. For example, radioactive iodine therapy is used to treat thyroid cancer and hyperthyroidism. Biomedical optics focuses on the use of light and optical technologies for medical applications. Techniques such as Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) provide high-resolution images of tissues, particularly useful in ophthalmology for diagnosing retinal disorders. Using light to treat medical conditions. Biomechanics applies principles of mechanics to understand the movement and function of the human body. Biomedical physicists in this field study the mechanical properties of tissues and develop technologies to improve diagnosis and treatment. Analyzing the mechanical behavior of bones, joints and muscles to develop better prosthetics, implants, and orthopedic treatments. Understanding the stresses and strains on these structures can help in designing more effective surgical interventions and rehabilitation protocols. Studying the mechanics of blood flow and the cardiovascular system to improve treatments for heart disease and develop devices such as stents, heart valves, and artificial hearts.

Advanced imaging technologies

The development of new imaging modalities and techniques is a key focus in biomedical physics. Advances in molecular imaging, for instance, aim to visualize cellular and molecular processes in vivo, providing deeper insights into disease mechanisms and enabling early diagnosis. Hybrid imaging systems, such as PET/MRI and PET/CT, combine the strengths of different modalities to provide comprehensive diagnostic information. Personalized medicine involves tailoring medical treatment to the individual characteristics of each patient. Biomedical physics play role in this approach by developing imaging and therapeutic techniques that are customized to the patient's specific anatomy and pathology. For example, Image- Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT) uses real-time imaging to adapt treatment plans based on changes in tumor size and position during the course of therapy. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are transforming biomedical physics by enabling the analysis of large and complex datasets. These technologies are being applied to improve image reconstruction, automate image analysis and enhance treatment planning. AI algorithms can identify patterns and anomalies in medical images images with high accuracy, potentially leading to earlier and more accurate diagnoses. Nanomedicine involves the application of nanotechnology in medicine, including the use of nanoparticles for drug delivery, imaging and therapy. Biomedical physicists are developing nanoscale devices and materials that can target specific cells or tissues, improving the efficacy and reducing the side effects of treatments. Nanoparticles can be engineered to carry therapeutic agents directly to cancer cells, for instance, enhancing the precision and effectiveness of cancer therapies. Theranostics combines diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities into a single platform, enabling simultaneous diagnosis and treatment of diseases. This approach is particularly promising in oncology, where theranostic agents can be used to detect tumors and deliver targeted therapy. Biomedical physicists are working on developing multifunctional nanoparticles and imaging agents that can provide real-time feedback on the effectiveness of treatments.