Since the opening of the General Hospital of the City of Vienna in 1784, our mission has been clearly defined by the inscription on the archway of both the old and new buildings: "saluti et solatio aegrorum" ("For the healing and comfort of the sick"). This mission is also followed by the Department of Neuro- and Musculoskeletal Radiology:
We contribute to the "healing of the sick" by using state-of-the-art imaging technologies to depict conditions related to the nervous system, muscle and skeletal system, as well as disorders in the head and neck. Our highly specialized doctors characterize these conditions. In addition, we offer minimally invasive and non-invasive methods for treating these conditions and their symptoms, such as pain and disabilities.
We contribute to the "comfort of the sick" by providing precise structural and, in some cases, functional descriptions of the current medical condition to referring specialist physicians from various medical fields. With the help of this information, the seeking patients can receive the most accurate medical advice and "comfort." What makes our department unique is our ability to support individuals of all ages, from before birth to senescence, using the latest technology available.
To ensure seamless collaboration with referring physicians, the department is represented in the leadership boards of both the Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health (C3NMH) and Comprehensive Center for Musculoskeletal Disorders (CCMSD).
Vision
In our department, neuroimaging and musculoskeletal imaging are being further developed in highly specialized areas of these disziplines. We aim to maintain the department's broad yet highly specialized range of services and expanding it through excellent research activities and active teaching. A team-oriented culture of collaboration, a creative environment with the latest technological capabilities, and employees who are passionate about our mission contribute to a humanistic approach that is focused on meeting people's needs and ultimately preserving and promoting the health of our patients.
To borrow the words of neuroscientist Antonio Damasio, this applies to both our patients and staff:
"Perhaps the most important thing we can do in our daily lives is to remember our complexity, vulnerability, finitude, and uniqueness, both in ourselves and in others." (Damasio, 2004)