Second generation slit-based photoacoustic tomography system for vascular imaging in human

Area of Science:

• Biomedical optics
• Acoustic imaging
• Medical imaging technology

Background:

• Slit-based photoacoustic tomography (PAT) offers improved elevation resolution via acoustic diffraction.
• Original systems were limited to phantoms and animal models due to implementation complexity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To significantly improve the slit-based PAT system for enhanced imaging capabilities.
• To enable non-invasive imaging of human vasculature.

Main Methods:

• Developed a new slit holder for easy adjustment and simultaneous scanning.
• Replaced optical fiber bundle for a larger imaging field of view.
• Updated data acquisition to double imaging speed.

Main Results:

• The improved system images a 3.8 × 4 cm^2 region in 40 seconds.
• Successfully imaged vasculature in human volunteers' palms and forearms.
• Acquired 3D palm vascular images.

Conclusions:

• The enhanced slit-based PAT system is faster, has a larger field of view, and is suitable for in-vivo human vascular imaging.
• This advancement overcomes previous limitations, paving the way for clinical applications.