Abstract
A low-intensity X-ray imaging device with the acronym Lixiscope is described. This device was originally conceived for use in X-ray astronomy where single-photon visualisation is required; however, the extension of its capabilities to medical and dental radiography soon became evident. The high sensitivity and large gain of the Lixiscope make it possible to reduce the patient dose by approximately 103 in certain diagnostic procedures, compared with conventional practice. Such extensive dose reduction not only allows safe fluoroscopic examinations, but also enables the use of radioactive sources in lieu of X-ray machines. Furthermore, because the Lixiscope produces a visible-light output image, it can be easily recorded on fast instant-processing films or used in conjunction with any other image recording and processing devices.