Optic fibres are used in :
(1) CAT scans
(2) X-ray photos
(3) Ultrasound scans
(4) Endoscopy
Answer: (4) Optical fibres are used in endoscopic instruments that enable doctors to view internal body parts without having to perform surgery. Fernando Alves Martins of Portugal invented the first fibre optic endoscope in 1963-64. Further innovations included using additional fibres to channel light to the objective end from a powerful external source, thereby achieving the high level of full-spectrum illumination that was needed for detailed viewing, and colour photography. The previous practice of a small filament lamp on the tip of the endoscope had left the choice of either viewing in dim red light or increasing the light output - which carried the risk of burning the inside of the patient. Alongside the advances to the optical side, the ability to ‘steer’ the tip was developed, as well as innovations in remotely operated surgical instruments contained within the body of the endoscope itself. This was the beginning of “key-hole surgery” as we know it today.
