Dual-modality rigid endoscope for photoacoustic imaging and white light videoscopy

There has been significant interest in the development of miniature photoacoustic imaging probes for a variety of clinical uses, including the in situ assessment of tumors and minimally invasive surgical guidance. Most of the previously implemented probes are either side viewing or operate in the optical-resolution microscopy mode in which the imaging depth is limited to $$. We describe a forward-viewing photoacoustic probe that operates in tomography mode and simultaneously provides white light video images.

We aim to develop a dual-modality endoscope capable of performing high-resolution PAT imaging and traditional white light videoscopy simultaneously in the forward-viewing configuration.

We used a Fabry-Pérot ultrasound sensor that operates in the 1500 to 1600 nm wavelength range and is transparent in the visible and near infrared region (580 to 1250 nm). The FP sensor was optically scanned using a miniature MEMs mirror located at the proximal end of the endoscope, resulting in a system that is sufficiently compact (10 mm outer diameter) and lightweight for practical endoscopic use.

The imaging performance of the endoscope is evaluated, and dual-mode imaging capability is demonstrated using phantoms and abdominal organs of an ex vivo mouse including spleen, liver, and kidney.

The proposed endoscope design offers several advantages including the high acoustic sensitivity and wide detection bandwidth of the FP sensor, dual-mode imaging capability, compact footprint, and an all-optical distal end for improved safety. The dual-mode imaging capability also offers the advantage of correlating the tissue surface morphology with the underlying vascular anatomy. Potential applications include the guidance of laparoscopic surgery and other interventional procedures.