Background and objective: To advance the field of minimally invasive medical procedures, an ideal endoscope should provide high-resolution images with variable magnification from an ultra-thin package, while adding depth cues and integrating optical diagnoses and therapies. Satisfying all these requirements is extremely difficult using commercial endoscopes. A new imaging technology is introduced that uses directed laser illumination, which is scanned at the distal end of a flexible endoscope.
Study design/materials and methods: A single-mode optical fiber is driven in vibratory resonance using a piezoelectric actuator. The emitted laser light is scanned in two-dimensions over test specimens. Digital images are constructed by detecting optical power one pixel at a time.
Results: Unique features of the fiber scanning scope are rapidly changing magnification, enhanced topographic detail, and concurrent fluorescence imaging, which are demonstrated and discussed.
Conclusion: This fiber scanning scope has the potential for pixel-accurate delivery of high quality laser radiation, allowing the future integration of imaging with diagnosis and therapy.
Copyright 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.