Advances in chip and computer technology made digital images more sophisticated, providing doctors with a more intricate view of the human body than traditional X-rays offered. CT scanners were first installed in 1974 and the first whole-body MRI scanner was completed in 1977. In some cases, these devices have produced pictures so detailed that doctors discover a better way to perform an operation or find that they do not need to initiate exploratory surgery.

Photograph by Tom Sibley/Gallery Stock