Proposes an image enhancement algorithm that converts raw data from a storage phosphor scanner into a diagnostically optimized image. The spatial segmentation algorithm is applied to extract the body part of a clinical image, and histogram analysis is then used to develop the tone-scale for the region of interest. Further enhancement is obtained by unsharp masking. This approach reduces the sensitivity to nonanatomical regions and allows full use of the display's dynamic range for image viewing. The algorithms have been tested on clinical images and the results were reviewed by radiologists. Currently, these algorithms are being successfully used in the clinical environment. >