Biomedical signal processing: present and future

Summary form only given, as follows. Biomedical signal processing is a rapidly expanding field with a wide range of applications. These range from the construction of artificial limbs and aids for the disabled to the development of sophisticated medical imaging systems that can operate in a non-invasive manner to give real time views of the workings of the human body. There are a number of imaging systems in common use. These include ultrasound scanners, magnetic resonance imaging scanners and positron emission tomography. X-ray systems have also improved and are widely used for many purposes such as mammograms. This plenary session covers biomedical signal processing as used in both therapeutic and diagnostic instrumentation. A number of current research projects are also outlined with emphasis on intelligent medical image diagnosis.