Science and Research

Novel endoscope with increased depth of field for imaging human nasal tissue by microscopic optical coherence tomography

Intravital microscopy (IVM) offers the opportunity to visualize static and dynamic changes of tissue on a cellular level. It is a valuable tool in research and may considerably improve clinical diagnosis. In contrast to confocal and non-linear microscopy, optical coherence tomography (OCT) with microscopic resolution (mOCT) provides intrinsically cross-sectional imaging. Changing focus position is not needed, which simplifies especially endoscopic imaging. For in-vivo imaging, here we are presenting endo-microscopic OCT (emOCT). A graded-index-lens (GRIN) based 2.75 mm outer diameter rigid endoscope is providing 1.5 - 2 microm nearly isotropic resolution over an extended field of depth. Spherical and chromatic aberrations are used to elongate the focus length. Simulation of the OCT image formation, suggests a better overall image quality in this range compared to a focused Gaussian beam. Total imaging depth at a reduced sensitivity and lateral resolution is more than 200 microm. Using a frame rate of 80 Hz cross-sectional images of concha nasalis were demonstrated in humans, which could resolve cilial motion, cellular structures of the epithelium, vessels and blood cells. Mucus transport velocity was successfully determined. The endoscope may be used for diagnosis and treatment control of different lung diseases like cystic fibrosis or primary ciliary dyskinesia, which manifest already at the nasal mucosa.

  • Schulz-Hildebrandt, H.
  • Pieper, M.
  • Stehmar, C.
  • Ahrens, M.
  • Idel, C.
  • Wollenberg, B.
  • Konig, P.
  • Huttmann, G.

Keywords

  • (110.0110) Imaging systems
  • (110.4500) Optical coherence tomography
  • (120.3890) Medical optics instrumentation
  • (170.0170) Medical optics and biotechnology
  • (170.2150) Endoscopic imaging
  • article.
Publication details
DOI: 10.1364/BOE.9.000636
Journal: Biomedical optics express
Pages: 636-647 
Number: 2
Work Type: Original
Location: Assoziierter Partner, ARCN
Disease Area: AA
Partner / Member: UKSH (Lübeck), UzL
Access-Number: 29552400
See publication on PubMed

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