Imaging-AOTF-based full-field spectral-domain optical coherence tomography

Abstract

A technique for spectral filtration of interference images in full-field optical coherence tomography is proposed, implemented and tested. It is based on the spectral selection of light in the registration channel of the interferometer by imaging acousto-optic tunable filter. It is demonstrated that the diffraction of two interfering optical beams via the same ultrasound wave does not destruct the coherence. This new technique, which can be named tunable-imaging-filter-based full-field spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (TIF FF SD OCT), is applicable for 3D surface and inner structure visualization of optically inhomogeneous biomedical objects with moderate spectral, lateral and axial resolution, however with rather high speed.