Fourier domain pump-probe optical coherence tomography: hemoglobin imaging at 830 nm

摘要

The detailed 3-D mapping of tissue microcirculation, including blood oxygen saturation and flow, would provide important biometrics needed to understand the cause and progression of numerous diseases. To that end we have started developing a two-color Fourier domain Pump-Probe Optical Coherence Tomography (PPOCT) system designed specifically to image hemoglobin with the eventual goal of measuring blood oxygen saturation. This system utilizes a two-color pump-probe scheme chosen to maximize the potential imaging depth by probing in the near IR where the tissue scattering properties are most favorable and pumping in the visible where the hemoglobin light absorption is most efficient. A sample consisting of pure hemoglobin placed between two coverslips has been used for the initial demonstration and to begin the process of optimizing the system.