Imaging behind opaque obstacle: a potential method for guided in vitro needle placement

Area of Science:

• Optical imaging
• Lens technology
• Biomedical optics

Background:

• Conventional imaging methods are limited when viewing objects obscured by obstacles.
• There is a need for real-time imaging techniques that can overcome visual obstructions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a simple, real-time optical imaging concept for visualizing objects behind opaque obstacles.
• To highlight the advantages of using an axicon lens over conventional lenses for through-the-obstacle imaging.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an axicon lens for optical imaging.
• Demonstrated the concept by imaging a surgical needle insertion in biological specimens in real time.

Main Results:

• Successfully imaged an object behind an opaque obstacle in real time.
• The axicon lens provided a clear view without obstructing the field of view during a simulated surgical procedure.

Conclusions:

• The proposed axicon lens-based imaging concept is effective for real-time visualization through obstacles.
• This methodology holds significant potential for enhancing diagnostics, therapeutics, and microscopy.