Microfabricated endoscopic probe integrated MEMS micromirror for optical coherence tomography bioimaging

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Optical Imaging
• Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS)

Background:

• Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a valuable tool for subsurface bioimaging.
• Existing OCT systems can be limited in their ability to access and image internal organs non-invasively.
• Miniaturization of OCT probes is crucial for endoscopic applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and demonstrate a miniaturized endoscopic probe for OCT bioimaging.
• To enable non-invasive diagnosis of internal organs using OCT.
• To achieve high-resolution imaging with the developed probe.

Main Methods:

• The probe was engineered using a Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) micromirror, silicon optical bench (SiOB), gradient index (GRIN) lens, and single mode optical fiber (SMF).
• The system's proof of concept was validated by acquiring 2D OCT images.
• Standard samples including a cover slide and an onion were used for testing.

Main Results:

• A miniaturized endoscopic probe for OCT bioimaging was successfully developed.
• The probe utilizes a MEMS micromirror for versatile scanning.
• Achieved an axial resolution of approximately 10µm in the obtained 2D OCT images.

Conclusions:

• The miniaturized endoscopic OCT probe is suitable for non-invasive imaging diagnosis of various inner organs.
• The integration of MEMS technology allows for enhanced maneuverability and imaging capabilities.
• The demonstrated resolution indicates the potential for detailed diagnostic imaging in endoscopic procedures.