Future Directions of Optical Coherence Tomography in Otology: A Morphological and Functional Approach

摘要

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a real-time optical imaging modality that enables tomographic imaging at the submicron scale. Basic research into applications of OCT systems in the field of otology has been conducted. For instance, Oh et al. [ ] recently reported that OCT provided noninvasive, nondestructive two-dimensional cross-sectional and three-dimensional volumetric images of middle-ear and inner ear structures in rodents. Anatomical depth-resolved imaging has shown promising potential for morphological measurements of the middle and inner ear in chinchillas [ ] and mice with blast trauma [ ]. Moreover, OCT has demonstrated its capability as a functional analytical tool by characterizing the vibration of middle and inner ear structures using the Doppler principle without contrast labeling to identify fluid, cellular structures, and bone [ ]. Interestingly, Eustachian tube status and stent position were evaluated noninvasively using an intraluminal three-dimensional OCT catheter in sheep cadaver heads [ ].