Photoacoustic microscopy and computed tomography: from bench to bedside

Area of Science:

• Biomedical optics
• Acoustic imaging
• Medical technology

Background:

• Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) has advanced significantly, offering high spatial resolution and functional insights into biological tissues.
• PAI leverages both optical excitation and acoustic detection, combining their strengths for enhanced imaging.
• The technique excels in sensitivity to optical absorption and scalable resolution for deep tissue imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the fundamental principles of photoacoustic imaging.
• To highlight practical implementations of PAI technology.
• To discuss recent advancements and the path toward clinical translation of PAI.

Main Methods:

• Review of foundational principles in photoacoustic imaging.
• Analysis of practical implementation strategies for PAI systems.
• Discussion of recent technological progress and clinical translation efforts.

Main Results:

• PAI provides high resolution and functional information at depths within the optical diffusive regime.
• The hybrid modality offers high sensitivity to optical absorption.
• Scalable spatial resolution is achievable with desired imaging depths.

Conclusions:

• Photoacoustic imaging is a rapidly growing field with unique advantages for biological tissue visualization.
• Understanding PAI principles and implementation is crucial for its development.
• Ongoing advances are paving the way for the clinical adoption of photoacoustic imaging.