Visible-light optical coherence tomography: a review

J Biomed Opt. 2017 Dec;22(12):1-14. doi: 10.1117/1.JBO.22.12.121707.

Abstract

Visible-light optical coherence tomography (vis-OCT) is an emerging imaging modality, providing new capabilities in both anatomical and functional imaging of biological tissue. It relies on visible light illumination, whereas most commercial and investigational OCTs use near-infrared light. As a result, vis-OCT requires different considerations in engineering design and implementation but brings unique potential benefits to both fundamental research and clinical care of several diseases. Here, we intend to provide a summary of the development of vis-OCT and its demonstrated applications. We also provide perspectives on future technology improvement and applications.

Keywords: brain imaging; hemodynamics; metabolic rate of oxygen; optical coherence tomography; retinal imaging; spectroscopic analysis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Light
  • Tomography, Optical Coherence* / trends