Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive imaging technique used to visualize and analyze the internal structures of biological tissues with micrometer-level resolution. It operates based on low-coherence interferometry, where near-infrared light is emitted into the tissue and the backscattered light is measured to create high-resolution cross-sectional images. OCT provides real-time, high-resolution, and three-dimensional images of tissue morphology, allowing for the visualization of tissue layers, microstructures, and pathological changes. It is widely used in ophthalmology for imaging the retina and anterior segment of the eye, aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of retinal diseases such as macular degeneration and glaucoma. OCT is also utilized in cardiology, dermatology, gastroenterology, and dentistry for imaging various tissues and lesions. Advances in OCT technology, including spectral-domain OCT and swept-source OCT, improve imaging speed, depth penetration, and image quality. Collaboration between engineers, physicists, clinicians, and industry professionals drives innovation in OCT, expanding its applications and enhancing its diagnostic capabilities in medical imaging.