Optical coherence tomography needle probe for real-time visualization of temperature-induced phase changes within subcutaneous fatty tissue

Significance: Selective cryolipolysis is a widely used aesthetic procedure that cools subcutaneous adipose tissue to temperatures as low as - 11°C to induce fat cell destruction. However, real-time monitoring techniques are lacking, limiting the ability to optimize safety and efficacy. Traditional imaging methods either fail to provide adequate penetration depth or lack the resolution necessary for visualizing subcutaneous fatty tissue dynamics. Aim: This paper aims to demonstrate that an optical coherence tomography (OCT) needle probe can be used for real-time observation of temperature-induced changes in subcutaneous fatty tissue, potentially enhancing the assessment and optimization of cryolipolysis procedures. Approach: We developed a side-viewing OCT-based needle probe designed for subcutaneous imaging. The probe consists of a fiber-optic system encased in a transparent, biocompatible polymer catheter with an outer diameter of 900  

• Schulz-Hildebrandt, H.
• Wang-Evers, M.
• Meyer-Schell, N.
• Karasik, D.
• Casper, M. J.
• Eixmann, T.
• Hilge, F.
• Birngruber, R.
• Manstein, D.
• Hüttmann, G.