When a biological tissue is illuminated with coherent light, an interference pattern will be formed at the detector, the so-called speckle pattern. Laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI) is a technique based on the dynamic change in this backscattered light as a result of interaction with red blood cells. It can be used to visualize perfusion in various tissues and, even though this technique has been extensively described in the literature, the actual clinical implementation lags behind. We provide an overview of LSCI as a tool to image tissue perfusion. We present a brief introduction to the theory, review clinical studies from various medical fields, and discuss current limitations impeding clinical acceptance.

Anastomotic leakage is a worldwide problem in gastrointestinal surgery which seems to be related to the state of microcirculation. Laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI) could give surgeons insight in the state of microcirculation to attune the site of anastomosis. This work studies the feasibility of LSCI as a tool for this purpose. An experimental setup was developed using a commercially available laparoscopic video system. Laser speckle contrast imaging is capable of detecting ischemic areas on the large intestine. Further research and development are required before adaptation of this technique in the operating room.

Fluorescence imaging is an emerging imaging technique that has shown many benefits for clinical care. Currently, the field is in rapid clinical translation, and an unprecedented number of clinical trials are performed. Clinicians are inundated with numerous opportunities and combinations of different imaging modalities. To streamline this process, a multidisciplinary approach is needed with drug discovery, software and systems engineering, and translational medicine. Here, we discuss the main constituents of a uniform fluorescence imaging protocol to match the clinical need and ensure consistent study designs and reliable data collection in clinical trials. In an era in which the potential of fluorescence imaging has become evident, consistent conduct of studies, data analysis, and data interpretation are essential for implementation into standard of care.