Compact AOTF-based spectral imaging system for medical endoscopic analysis

Abstract

A prototype of a spectral imaging module is described which can be attached to conventional rigid and flexible medical endoscopes. It is based on acousto-optic tunable filters (AOTF) and provides fast spectral image registration at an arbitrary series of wavelengths. The main advantage of the device is the minimization of spatial and spectral image distortion by use of a specialized double AOTF monochromator. These properties ensure immediate and reliable detection of spectral features in any image pixel. Real-time spectral analysis, in addition to spectral visualization, provides the opportunity to make medical photoluminescence diagnostics more effective.

Current research on photonics and lasers in medicine in Russia

“…They include both low-tech and high-tech methods and devices and are typically portable, fast, and relatively inexpensive [17] . Machihin et al [18] describe a prototype of a spectral imaging module attachable to conventional rigid and flexible medical endoscopes, based on acousto-optic tunable filters (AOTF). According to the authors, the main advantage of the device is the minimization of the spatial and spectral image distortion by use of a specialized double AOTF monochromator that enables immediate and reliable detection of spectral features in any image pixel.…”