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Polarization sensitive optical coherence tomography - a review [Invited]
Johannes F de Boer1,2,3, Christoph K Hitzenberger4,2,5, Yoshiaki Yasuno6,2
1Department of Physics and Astronomy, LaserLaB Amsterdam, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Biomedical Optics Express
|July 1, 2017
Summary
Polarization sensitive optical coherence tomography (PS-OCT) enhances imaging contrast for biomedical applications. This technique leverages light polarization changes in tissues, improving image interpretation beyond conventional OCT methods.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Optics
- Medical Imaging
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Conventional optical coherence tomography (OCT) offers high-resolution imaging but lacks tissue-specific contrast, leading to interpretation challenges.
- Light polarization is altered by various materials and biological tissues, presenting an opportunity for enhanced imaging contrast.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review fundamental and advanced methods of polarization sensitive optical coherence tomography (PS-OCT).
- To demonstrate the utility of PS-OCT in diverse biomedical applications.
Main Methods:
- Review of basic and advanced PS-OCT techniques.
- Application of PS-OCT for imaging in selected biomedical contexts.
Main Results:
- PS-OCT provides an additional contrast channel by analyzing changes in light polarization.
- Quantitative information can be derived from PS-OCT data, aiding in tissue characterization.
Conclusions:
- PS-OCT significantly improves image interpretation compared to conventional OCT.
- PS-OCT is a valuable tool for various biomedical imaging applications, offering enhanced contrast and quantitative data.
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