Ultrahigh-resolution optical coherence tomography with a diode-pumped broadband Cr(3+):LiCAF laser

Ultrahigh resolution optical coherence tomography (OCT) is performed with a broadband, Kerr-lens mode-locked, diode-pumped Cr(3+):LiCAF laser. The laser source has a bandwidth of 89 nm with an output power of 37 mW. OCT imaging is demonstrated with 4.5 microm axial resolution in air or 3.4 microm in tissue. In vivo imaging of the human retina is demonstrated. Ultrahigh resolution OCT images from the Cr(3+):LiCAF laser source were compared with standard resolution images from a commercial OCT system and ultrahigh resolution OCT images from a Kerr-lens modelocked Ti:sapphire laser light source. The Cr(3+):LiCAF source is pumped only by two single-emitter laser diodes, which makes this laser a viable, low-cost alternative to mode-locked Ti:sapphire lasers that are currently used for ultrahigh resolution OCT imaging.