New Method Enhances Depth of Focus in Endoscopic Optical Coherence Tomography

Recent advancements in optical coherence tomography (OCT) have been reported in a paper titled "Computer-generated holography enables high-uniformity, high-efficiency depth-of-focus extension in endoscopic OCT" by Chengfu Gu and colleagues. The study, submitted on September 2, 2024, addresses the challenges faced in endoscopic OCT, particularly the trade-off between probe size, resolution, and depth of focus (DOF).

The authors introduce a novel method that utilizes multi-level diffractive optics to extend the DOF with high uniformity and efficiency. This approach leverages the capabilities of computer-generated holography (CGH) to control the intensity distribution of the OCT probe light. Notably, the method eliminates the need for an objective lens, enabling direct fabrication at the distal end of a single-mode fiber using femtosecond laser two-photon 3D printing.

The effectiveness of this method has been validated through numerical simulations, beam measurements, and imaging results from a home-built endoscopic OCT system. The findings suggest significant improvements in the imaging capabilities of endoscopic OCT, which could enhance its application in medical diagnostics and research.

This research is crucial as it may lead to more precise imaging techniques in medical settings, potentially improving patient outcomes and advancing the field of optical imaging. The full paper can be accessed at arXiv:2409.01252.