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Multiple scattering in optical coherence tomography. I. Investigation and modeling
Boris Karamata1, Markus Laubscher, Marcel Leutenegger
1Laboratoire d'Optique Biomédicale, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland. boris.karamata@a3.epfl.ch
Summary
We developed a new optical coherence tomography (OCT) model that accounts for multiple scattering. Our findings show OCT signals remain spatially coherent despite scattering, enabling accurate measurements.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Optics
- Optical Engineering
- Statistical Optics
Background:
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a powerful imaging technique.
- Multiple scattering in biological tissues can degrade OCT signal quality.
- Existing OCT models often assume single scattering or partial coherence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a new OCT model incorporating multiple scattering effects.
- To analyze the spatial coherence and temporal stationarity of backscattered fields in OCT.
- To provide a more accurate theoretical framework for OCT signal interpretation.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical analysis of backscattered field coherence under multiple scattering.
- Development of a novel OCT signal model based on spatially coherent fields.
- Monte Carlo simulations and experimental validation using a microsphere suspension sample.
Main Results:
- The backscattered field in OCT remains spatially coherent even with multiple scattering.
- The interference signal in OCT is stationary over measurement time.
- The proposed model accurately predicts OCT signals, validated by experimental data.
Conclusions:
- Multiple scattering in OCT does not necessarily lead to loss of spatial coherence.
- The new model offers improved accuracy for OCT imaging in scattering media.
- This work advances the understanding and application of OCT in complex samples.