Endoscopic optical coherence tomography (OCT) offers near histologic quality visualization of tissue microanatomy in vivo, circumventing the challenges of traditional biopsy by enabling volumetric sampling without tissue removal. Miniaturized probes have been designed to overcome the limited imaging depth of conventional OCT, thereby facilitating minimally invasive imaging. Visible light OCT (vis-OCT) endoscopy has the potential to achieve ultrahigh resolution of less than 2μm with enhanced image contrast. However, current vis-OCT endoscopes, which rely on achromatic lenses and distal motors, are cumbersome and pose safety concerns in clinical environments, underscoring the need for ultracompact, current-free alternatives. Additionally, conventional fabrication methods for high-performance, ultrathin vis-OCT endoscopes have limitations. In this study, we introduce a submillimeter monolithic vis-OCT endoscope, created by directly coupling microlens to the fiber tip using a liquid shaping technique. Our ultrathin vis-OCT endoscope of 0.4mm in outer diameter enables ultrahigh-resolution (1.4μm × 4.5μm in axial and transversal directions) interstitial imaging in vivo.
To effectively manage inoperable deep-seated brain diseases, a high-resolution diminutive endoscope is required. This endoscope should be capable of precisely localizing and evaluating lesions in vivo. In this study, we introduce an ultrathin robotic OCT neuroendoscope designed for minimally invasive and targeted imaging in the deep brain. The neuroendoscope, measuring only 0.6mm in diameter, is fabricated by coupling a custom micro-lens on the fiber tip. This fabrication technique enables high resolution imaging of 2.4μm × 4.5μm in the axial and transverse directions. To ensure precise trajectory planning and accurate lesion localization within the brain, we have developed a skull-mounted robotic neuroendoscope positioner, allowing for a localization accuracy of approximately 1mm. To demonstrate the capabilities of our technology, we have utilized electromagnetic tracking technology to enable us to control and navigate the neuroendoscope, allowing for the precise localization and imaging of targets within a brain phantom. The new technology holds significant potential to translate OCT neuroendoscopy into clinical practice for deep brain conditions.
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