It’s a Century Celebration at RSNA 2014

Today marked the first of six full days of educational programs for radiologists, radiologic technologists and allied professionals as the 100th scientific assembly and annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) kicked off with a nod to the past and a vision for the future. RSNA’s centennial celebration carries the theme “A Century of Transforming Medicine,” and numerous activities are planned this week to help celebrate this milestone.

The Centennial Showcase, a free-flowing interactive exhibit that interweaves the history of RSNA with the development of radiologic science and technology, gives visitors an opportunity to explore radiology's achievements and immerse themselves in RSNA's rich history. In addition to "Cases of the Century," the Centennial Showcase includes "Our Milestones," where RSNA's defining moments are presented in a compelling multimedia presentation; "Art & Science," a collection of captivating and artistically rendered medical images; "Roentgen's Welcome," featuring a virtual incarnation of the father of radiology; and the "Centennial Galleries," focusing on RSNA's defining principles: Community, Education, Research, Innovation and Patient Care, which also showcases rare pieces of vintage radiology equipment.

"As we celebrate the past, we will also look to the future," said RSNA 2014 President N. Reed Dunnick, M.D., who co-chairs the Centennial Committee with Ronald L. Arenson, M.D., 2015 RSNA president-elect. "I invite all attendees to sign the Memory Book. It will give you a place to leave your mark, congratulate your society — and yourselves — on 'A Century of Transforming Medicine,' and give your predictions for the next hundred years."

Each year, RSNA invites eminent researchers and leaders to deliver lectures during the meeting. Today, Francis S. Collins, M.D., Ph.D., director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), helped celebrate RSNA's centennial in his lecture by examining the exceptional opportunities that scientific and technological breakthroughs offer for biomedical research. With particular focus on NIH-supported imaging research, his talk examined recent advances in fundamental knowledge about biology and highlighted the ways in which that knowledge is serving to improve human health. He concluded with a discussion of future challenges, including training the next generation of researchers; supporting the development of innovative research, programs and partnerships; and encouraging broader appreciation and support for the biomedical research enterprise.

Study findings and other news that breaks from RSNA during the coming week will be posted at itnonline.com. Also visit the RSNA FastPass microsite, www.itnonline.com/rsna-fastpass, with information about hundreds of products on display in the RSNA exhibit halls. Several of them are highlighted below.

Enjoy the meeting!