Scientists develop camera that can see through human body

Scientists have developed a camera that can see through the human body, BBC reports.

The device, which works by detecting light sources inside the body, has been designed to help doctors track medical tools, known as endoscopes, during internal examinations.

It was developed by researchers so it can be used at the patient’s bedside.

Until now, medics have had to rely on expensive scans, such as X-rays, to trace their progress.

The project, led by the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University, is part of the Proteus Interdisciplinary Research Collaboration, which is developing a range of new technologies for diagnosing and treating lung diseases.

The camera can detect individual particles, called photons, and is so sensitive it can catch tiny traces of light passing through tissue.

It can also record the time taken for light to pass through the body, meaning the device is able to work out exactly where the endoscope is.

“It has immense potential for diverse applications, such as the one described in this work,” said Kev Dhaliwal of the University of Edinburgh.

“The ability to see a device’s location is crucial for many applications in healthcare, as we move forwards with minimally invasive approaches to treating disease.”

On his part, Michael Tanner, of Heriot-Watt University, said: “My favourite element of this work was the ability to work with clinicians to understand a practical healthcare challenge, then tailor advanced technologies and principles that would not normally make it out of a physics lab to solve real problems.

“I hope we can continue this interdisciplinary approach to make a real difference in healthcare technology.”