Today's the last day of the International Modern Hospital Show 2006 in Tokyo, where almost 400 companies showcased the latest in healthcare-related technology. These kinds of products are fascinating to me; I cling to the thought of using technology for good and not evil. But some of these devices look... well, the Marquis de Sade would be intrigued.

For example, pictured at left is the "transnasal endoscope," which was developed by the FUJIFILM Medical Co. and Fujinon Toshiba ES Systems Co., Ltd. It's for patients getting endoscopy; the body is entered through, yes, the nose. It's supposed to be comfortable. What do you think?

Also fun is the "patient simulator," shown by IMI Corporation and Paramount Bed Co., Ltd. It's a "monitor connected to a sensor-laden mannequin whose physiology changes realistically according to the treatment it receives." Poor, poor mannequin! 

Check out Pink Tentacle for more pictures and info.