Jerold W. Wallis, M.D.

DEPARTMENT OF Radiology
Keywords: PACS, PET, SPECT, tomographic imaging

In recent years, computers have played an increasing role in radiology and nuclear medicine. Emerging areas include the following:
- Improved visualization of tomographic data sets using three-dimensional displays.
- Improved reconstruction algorithms for tomographic imaging in SPECT (single photon emission computed tomography) and PET (positron emission tomography).
- PACS (picture archiving and communication systems).
- Use of computers to aid in image analysis and interpretation, including AI (artificial intelligence) programs.

Dr. Wallis’ research efforts in past years have been focused primarily on three-dimensional visualization techniques and on iterative reconstruction in SPECT. Current work is concentrated on improving DICOM connectivity and interoperability in nuclear medicine, both on a local and national level. He has helped set up the PACS system within Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology’s Division of Nuclear Medicine and is also involved in the broader PACS effort of the Department of Radiology at Washington University School of Medicine and Barnes-Jewish Hospital. Dr. Wallis created and maintains the Internet-based Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology nuclear medicine teaching file at http://gamma.wustl.edu/home.html. His background also includes research in applications of artificial intelligence in medicine, and this is a potential future research direction.