Created a camera that can see right through

Scientists from the University of Edinburgh created a camera capable of viewing objects through without using X-rays.. The principle of its operation is quite simple. The fact is that all modern endoscopes have in their structure backup sources of illumination, which are used in non-invasive operations.

The new model of the camera will allow to “catch” photons emanating from this source. Built-in detectors make it possible to detect unscattered photons moving practically along straight-line trajectories. Tracking their trajectory is usually not difficult, since the number of such photons is several times smaller than ordinary scattered ones. Comparing the time of registration of photons of each of the two types, you can determine the exact location of the endoscope.

The developers conducted experiments in which light sources were located inside the carcasses and organs of animals. The tissue thickness of more than 20 cm made it possible to fix the necessary signal without difficulty.

Endoscopic studies are very common in modern medicine. With their help, they diagnose diseases of the stomach, esophagus, and duodenum. In many cases, activities carried out with the help of an endoscope are controlled with an x-ray machine. This allows you to more accurately determine the position of the device inside the human body and avoid possible inaccuracies.

However, x-rays are not the best way to diagnose. First, no one has canceled the negative effects of X-ray radiation, especially if we are talking about repetitive diagnostic procedures. Secondly, the cost of using an X-ray machine significantly increases the rate for a complete endoscopic procedure. This significantly beats the patient's pocket and health authorities.