Portable and Affordable Light Source-Based Photoacoustic Tomography.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Optics
• Medical Imaging Technology

Background:

• Photoacoustic imaging combines optical and ultrasound properties for enhanced imaging.
• Clinical translation of photoacoustic imaging is hindered by the need for bulky, expensive pulsed lasers.
• Development of portable, affordable light sources is crucial for broader adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review inexpensive light sources for photoacoustic imaging.
• To discuss implementations and applications of affordable photoacoustic imaging.
• To accelerate the clinical translation of photoacoustic imaging technology.

Main Methods:

• Focus on laser diodes and light-emitting diodes as excitation sources.
• Review key technological developments in affordable photoacoustic tomography.
• Analyze preclinical and clinical applications using these light sources.

Main Results:

• Laser diodes and LEDs show promise as cost-effective alternatives to traditional lasers.
• Affordable light sources enable photoacoustic imaging in resource-limited settings.
• Demonstrated potential across various preclinical and clinical applications.

Conclusions:

• Inexpensive light sources are vital for advancing photoacoustic imaging.
• This review provides a comprehensive overview for researchers and clinicians.
• Accelerating clinical translation requires accessible and portable photoacoustic imaging systems.