RESUMO
An optical coherence tomography system is described which can image up to video rate. The system utilizes a high power broadband source and real time image acquisition hardware and features a high speed scanning delay line in the reference arm based on Fourier-transform pulse shaping technology. The theory of low coherence interferometry with a dispersive delay line, and the operation of the delay line are detailed and the design equations of the system are presented. Real time imaging is demonstrated in vivo in tissues relevant to early human disease diagnosis (skin, eye) and in an important model in developmental biology (Xenopus laevis).
RESUMO
We report on the design and initial clinical experience with a real-time endoscopic optical coherence tomography (EOCT) imaging system. The EOCT unit includes a high-speed optical coherence tomography interferometer, endoscope-compatible catheter probes, and real-time data capture and display hardware and software. Several technological innovations are introduced that improve EOCT efficiency and performance. In initial clinical studies using the EOCT system, the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, ileum, colon, and rectum of patients with normal endoscopic findings were examined. In these initial investigations, EOCT imaging clearly delineated the substructure of the mucosa and submucosa in several gastrointestinal organs; microscopic structures such as glands, blood vessels, pits, villi, and crypts were also observed.