OCT principles of operation
The Niris Imaging System employs Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), which can be used to construct high spatial resolution [~ 10-20 micrometers], cross-sectional images of tissue microstructure. The principle of OCT is similar to B-mode ultrasound imaging, except that OCT uses light instead of sound.
In OCT, the image is constructed by first measuring the in-depth profile of the backscattered light intensity in the axial (depth) direction. In-depth profiling is performed by measuring the echo time delay and intensity of backscattered or reflected light. Distance or spatial information is determined from the time delay of reflected echoes according to the formula z = Δ T · v, where z is the distance the echo travels, Δ T is the echo delay, and v is the wave propagation velocity of wave (light or sound). Because light travels at such a high speed (~ 3x108 m/s), as compared to sound (~1500 m/s), a light echo time delay system would require ultrafast time resolution, which would be impractical and expensive to achieve with modern electronics. For example, an in-depth spatial resolution of 10 micrometers corresponds to a time resolution of approximately 30 femtoseconds (fs). Instead, the Niris Imaging System measures OCT echo time delays by comparing the backscattered or backreflected light signal to a controlled reference signal.
To create a two-dimensional image, the fiber optic beam is moved laterally across the surface (x-axis) and in-depth profiles (z-axis) are obtained at discrete points along the surface. By obtaining these profiles over a lateral distance, a two-dimensional, cross-sectional image is constructed.
To perform a lateral scan, the Imalux Niris Imaging System’s proprietary engineering design incorporates a miniaturized electromagnetic mechanism, coupled with an optical lens system, which moves the Probe’s internal fiber optic tip and enables the optical beam to scan laterally over a 2 mm range while maintaining a small (2.7 mm) outer diameter. This mechanism is localized at the Probe’s tip, and the light is delivered back and forth by an optical fiber, which allows the Probe to have convenient access to a tissue – facilitating image acquisition at the tissue site and permitting use with various endoscope procedures.
The Probe, which is attached to the Imaging Console, is used to direct light to and from the patient tissue. A small electromechanical scanning mechanism in the Probe moves the optical beam laterally across the tissue surface while simultaneously acquiring in-depth backscattering profile at each lateral position. For certain applications, the Probe may be covered by a Niris Probe Sheath that is a purchased accessory to provide physical stability and prevent cross-contamination.
The information provided on this website is for the purpose of educating potential users about the OCT technology. Pictures contained on this website are for demonstration purposes only and should not be construed to accurately depict the body part, condition, or disease described. Nothing contained on this website is intended to be instructional for medical diagnosis or treatment. The information contained herein should not be considered complete, or take the place of thoroughly reading all inserts and labels pertaining to and included with the OCT technology.
Imalux shall not be liable for any improper use of the OCT technology and makes no representations or warranties as to the OCT technology’s efficacy, except as described in the labeling and inserts included with the product. Imalux makes no representations or warranties as to the use of OCT technology in the event that the user attempts to service or repair the machine without using a technician certified by Imalux or uses any accessories other than those recommended by Imalux.
Caution: Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.
