GPU accelerated real-time multi-functional spectral-domain optical coherence tomography system at 1300 nm

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Optics
• Medical Imaging Technology
• Optical Physics

Background:

• Spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) is a powerful non-invasive imaging technique.
• Existing SD-OCT systems often face limitations in processing speed and multi-functional capabilities.
• There is a need for advanced OCT systems capable of real-time, multi-parameter data acquisition and analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a GPU-accelerated, multi-functional SD-OCT system operating at 1300 nm.
• To demonstrate real-time processing and display of various OCT data types.
• To characterize polarization properties (phase retardation and diattenuation) using the developed system.

Main Methods:

• Development of a hybrid CPU-GPU architecture for accelerated OCT data processing.
• Implementation of a 1300 nm SD-OCT system capable of acquiring intensity, phase retardation, flow, and en face images.
• Characterization of polarization properties using a sample of polarizing films and wave plates.
• In vivo imaging of a mouse brain with thin skull preparation.

Main Results:

• The system achieves real-time processing of intensity images at 20 frames per second.
• Simultaneous display of four image types (intensity, phase retardation, flow, en face) at approximately 10 frames per second.
• Accurate characterization of phase retardation and diattenuation, matching theoretical values.
• Successful in vivo imaging of a mouse brain, demonstrating live multi-functional OCT visualization.

Conclusions:

• The presented GPU-accelerated multi-functional SD-OCT system offers significant advancements in speed and functionality.
• The system enables real-time, multi-parameter OCT imaging, including polarization-sensitive measurements.
• This technology holds promise for enhanced live visualization and characterization in various biological and medical applications.