Mary Irma Hilger

American radiologist

Mary Irma Hilger (1902–1990) was a pioneering American radiologist known for her contributions to the field of pediatric radiology. She was one of the first women to specialize in this area and made significant advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of childhood diseases through imaging techniques.

Early life and education

Mary Irma Hilger was born in 1902 in the United States. She pursued her undergraduate studies at the University of Minnesota, where she developed an interest in the medical sciences. Hilger went on to attend the University of Minnesota Medical School, earning her medical degree in 1928. During her time in medical school, she became particularly interested in the emerging field of radiology, which was then a relatively new discipline.

Career

After completing her medical degree, Hilger began her residency in radiology at the Mayo Clinic, one of the leading medical institutions in the country. She quickly distinguished herself in the field, focusing on pediatric radiology, a specialty that was not widely recognized at the time. Her work at the Mayo Clinic involved the use of X-rays to diagnose and treat diseases in children, and she became known for her ability to interpret complex radiographic images.

Mary Irma Hilger

In 1933, Hilger joined the faculty at the University of Minnesota Medical School, where she taught radiology to medical students and residents. She was a dedicated educator, known for her rigorous standards and her commitment to advancing the field of radiology. Her research focused on improving imaging techniques and developing new methods for diagnosing pediatric conditions.

Contributions to pediatric radiology

Mary Irma Hilger was instrumental in establishing pediatric radiology as a distinct specialty within the field of radiology. She published numerous papers on the subject, sharing her findings with the medical community and advocating for the use of radiological techniques in the diagnosis and treatment of childhood diseases. Her work helped to improve the accuracy of diagnoses and the effectiveness of treatments for young patients.

Hilger was also involved in the development of safety protocols for the use of X-rays in children, recognizing the potential risks associated with radiation exposure. She worked to minimize these risks while maximizing the diagnostic benefits of radiological imaging.

Legacy

Mary Irma Hilger's contributions to the field of radiology have had a lasting impact on the practice of medicine. Her pioneering work in pediatric radiology paved the way for future generations of radiologists and improved the care of countless children. She is remembered as a trailblazer in her field and a dedicated educator who inspired many students to pursue careers in radiology.

Related pages

• Radiology
• Pediatric radiology
• University of Minnesota Medical School
• Mayo Clinic