FORWARD-IMAGING INSTRUMENTS FOR OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY

We discuss the design and implementation of forward-imaging instrument s for optical coherence tomography (OCT), which require the delivery, scanning, and collection of single-spatial-mode optical radiation. A h and-held surgical probe for use in open surgery can provide cross-sect ional images of subsurface tissue before surgical incisions are made. A rigid laparoscope for minimally invasive surgical OCT imaging provid es a simultaneous en face view of the area being imaged. OCT imaging i s demonstrated on in vitro human specimens. (C) 1997 Optical Society o f America.