Enhancement of Infra-Red Images of Human Hand

Abstract

Among the various technologies used for medical imaging, Infra-Red methods occupies very important place, as IR light interaction with human body became to be a base for thermography, tomography and visualization of blood vessels. Different types of medical imaging techniques exists which are classified on the basis of the wavelength of the radiation used, the mode of operation (transmission or reflection) and the reproduction of the acquired information in the form of images. The human hand is one of the most complicated mechanical -biological objects. The complexity of various bones and tendons, joints and muscles, various soft tissues and network of blood vessels presents a significant challenge to any visualization technique. The request of medical professionals for clarity of hand images requires elimination of some parts of the image, colorizing, and contrast enhancement. In this study, we report significant improvement of IR images of the hand. Enhanced IR images allow clear visualization of tendons which are otherwise seen only by MRI.