Yes, pydicom returns a int16 array-type.
If you want to view it as a greyscale image in rgb format, then you need to know what window level you’re using or need, and adjust appropriately before saving or displaying.
First you have to extract parameters slope and interception from the DICOM file and convert to hounsfield units hu = pixel_value * slope + interception and then apply a correct window.
image700×141 21.4 KB
This resources can be util for you:

  
      
      Radiology Cafe
  
  
    

Radiology basics - CT overview 9

Basic principles of CT and how windowing works. The risks of CT scans in relation to radiation dose and contrast administration are explained.


  
  
    
    
  
  


and this code can be useful, specially see the step 2:

  
      programmersought.com
  
  
    

Using pydicom to realize Dicom file reading and CT image window width and... 15