Medical researcher Revolutionary camera can see through the human body

Researchers are developing a camera that could revolutionize investigations in the future
Until now, medical professionals, when they wanted to see the human body, had to use expensive and cumbersome methods such as X-rays. Researchers have now succeeded in developing a camera that can be seen through the human body, so to speak.

The scientists at the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University have developed a camera that can look through the human body. The device was designed to make it easier for physicians to track and better monitor the endoscope used in operations and internal examinations. The experts publish a press release on the results of their study.

A newly developed camera could provide physicians with more effective treatment during surgery or internal examinations. (Image: AntonioDiaz / fotolia.com)

Camera has enormous potential for a variety of applications
The new camera works by detecting light sources in the body, such as the illuminated tip of the long tube at the endoscope. The camera has tremendous potential for diverse applications, explains Professor Kev Dhaliwal of the University of Edinburgh. Being able to see the location of a device is critical to many healthcare applications as we advance with only minimally invasive approaches to treating disease, the expert adds.

Camera still recognizes light sources through 20 cm thick tissue
The previous early tests have shown that under normal conditions the prototype camera can track a point light source through 20cm thick tissue. Rays from the endoscope can pass through the body, but usually the rays scatter or bounce off the tissue and organs, explain the researchers. This makes it very difficult for the medical profession to understand where the tool being used is at the moment.

Sensitive camera can detect photons
The new camera can detect individual particles called photons and is so sensitive that it can already capture tiny traces of light through the tissue. The device is also able to absorb the time it takes for the light to pass through the body. This allows the newly developed camera to determine exactly where the endoscope is currently located, the doctors say.

Camera can be used directly on the bed of the patient
The camera was developed by the scientists so that it can be used directly on the bed of patients. The research, which was led by the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University, is part of the so-called Proteus Interdisciplinary Research Collaboration. This collaboration develops a number of novel technologies for the diagnosis and treatment of lung diseases.

Experts wanted to develop tailor-made advanced technologies to treat patients
"My favorite element in this research was the ability to work with medical professionals to better understand a practical health challenge and then develop tailored advanced technologies and principles that would not ordinarily be found in physics labs and therefore not for the treatment of true health Problems, "explains Dr. Michael Tanner from Heriot-Watt University. (As)