Advances in Monte Carlo Simulation for Light Propagation in Tissue

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Optics
• Computational Biology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Monte Carlo (MC) simulation is the established standard for modeling light transport in biological tissues.
• The method simulates photon interactions based on the optical properties of the medium.
• Continuous advancements in simulation techniques and applications are driving innovation in the field.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent technical advancements in Monte Carlo (MC) simulation for light propagation in tissue.
• To highlight emerging applications of MC simulation across various biomedical imaging modalities.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of the current state and future potential of MC simulation in tissue optics.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent literature on Monte Carlo (MC) simulation techniques for light propagation in tissue.
• Analysis of novel simulation geometries, photon interaction models, and data recording methods.
• Compilation and categorization of diverse applications in biomedical imaging.

Main Results:

• Significant progress has been made in developing advanced simulation geometries and tissue-light interaction models.
• New recording techniques have enhanced the efficiency and accuracy of MC simulations.
• Emerging applications include whole mouse body fluorescence imaging, ocular blood vessel imaging, skin terahertz imaging, and human head sinus imaging.

Conclusions:

• Monte Carlo (MC) simulation remains a powerful and versatile tool for studying light-tissue interactions.
• Recent technical innovations have expanded the scope and applicability of MC simulations.
• The reviewed applications demonstrate the growing impact of MC simulation in diverse areas of biomedical research and clinical imaging.