Imaging of the pediatric airway using optical coherence tomography

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an imaging modality that uses a broadband light source to produce high-resolution cross-sectional images in living tissue (8-20 microm). A prospective study of normal, benign, and pathologic tissues in the pediatric airway was conducted to assess the utility of OCT technology in characterizing the microanatomy of the pediatric upper aerodigestive tract in vivo.

Prospective clinical trial.

Fifteen patients from 1 to 17 years of age underwent surgical endoscopy and OCT for various airway disorders. OCT imaging was performed at a frame rate of 1 Hz using a 1.3-microm broadband light source to produce images 1.6 x 6 mm in vertical and horizontal dimensions. The epithelium, lamina propria, and unique tissue microstructures were visualized and then measured using digital micrometry. Direct comparison of OCT images with endoscopic photography was performed.

Systematic imaging of the oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx, and larynx was performed in all 15 patients. Normal microstructures identified included papillae, ducts, glands, and vessels, whereas pathologic conditions included distinct zones of mature scar, granulation tissue, edema, ulceration, and papillomatosis. Endoscopic photographs were well correlated with OCT images.

OCT is capable of obtaining high-resolution microanatomy images of pediatric airway in vivo tissue. OCT clearly identifies the epithelium and lamina propria while providing detailed structural information on normal and diseased tissues. OCT is a promising emerging imaging modality for use in current pediatric patient populations.