Red adaptation goggles

Red adaptation goggles were first invented by Wilhem Trendelenburg in 1916 for early radiologists to use to adapt their eyes to view the light produced by fluorescent screens during fluoroscopic procedures. The concept is based on the work by Antoine Beclere on dark adaptation of the eye, where it is noted that the fluoroscopy relies the use of the retinal rods of the eye. Since retinal rods are insensitive to long wavelengths of light, such as red light, while retinal cones are not, the goggles enabled the physicians to adapt their eyes in preparation for the fluoroscopic procedure while still being able to perform other work. Prior to the invention of these goggles, physicians were required to sit in the darkened room where the procedure would be performed for extended periods to adapt their eyes to the low lighting conditions.