Simultaneous photoacoustic imaging technique using an acoustic imaging lens

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Imaging
• Acoustic Imaging
• Optical Imaging

Background:

• Traditional photoacoustic (PA) tomography often relies on complex algorithms for image reconstruction, limiting real-time applications.
• Imaging multilayer samples presents challenges in distinguishing signals from different depths and maintaining image quality.

Discussion:

• This study introduces a novel PA tomography technique utilizing an acoustic lens for parallel imaging, enabling real-time 2D PA image acquisition.
• The system employs a long focal depth acoustic lens and a high sampling rate data acquisition system to capture high signal-to-noise ratio PA signals from all object planes.
• A time-resolved technique distinguishes PA signals from different depths, allowing for simultaneous reconstruction of high optical contrast multilayer PA images without complex algorithms.

Key Insights:

• Acoustic lens-based parallel imaging significantly simplifies PA tomography for multilayer samples.
• Simultaneous reconstruction of multilayer PA images is achieved in real-time, enhancing imaging speed.
• The developed technique provides high optical contrast and accurate cross-sections, validated by experimental results.

Outlook:

• This technique holds potential for advancing non-invasive imaging in various biomedical applications.
• Further optimization could lead to even higher resolution and faster imaging speeds.
• Integration with other imaging modalities could provide comprehensive diagnostic information.