Transvaginal fast-scanning optical-resolution photoacoustic endoscopy

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Optical Imaging
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Photoacoustic endoscopy enables in vivo visceral tissue examination using endogenous contrast.
• Current limitations include slow B-scan rates (∼10 Hz) due to scanning speed and laser repetition rate constraints.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present a transvaginal fast-scanning optical-resolution photoacoustic endoscope.
• To demonstrate its capability for high-speed in vivo imaging of visceral vasculature.

Main Methods:

• Development of a transvaginal photoacoustic endoscope with fast-scanning capabilities.
• Achieved a B-scan rate of 250 Hz over a 3-mm scanning range.
• Utilized endogenous contrast for imaging.

Main Results:

• Illustrated morphological differences in human ectocervix, uterine body, and sublingual mucosa vasculature.
• Showed longitudinal and cross-sectional differences in cervical vasculature of pregnant women.
• Demonstrated a significantly improved B-scan rate of 250 Hz.

Conclusions:

• The fast-scanning photoacoustic endoscope offers enhanced visualization of visceral vasculature.
• This technology holds promise for screening visceral pathological changes, particularly those related to angiogenesis.