Three-dimensional flow contrast imaging of deep tissue using noncontact diffuse correlation tomography.

ABSTRACT: This study extended our recently developed noncontact diffuse correlation spectroscopy flowmetry system into noncontact diffuse correlation tomography (ncDCT) for three-dimensional (3-D) flow imaging of deep tissue. A linear array of 15 photodetectors and two laser sources connected to a mobile lens-focusing system enabled automatic and noncontact scanning of flow in a region of interest. These boundary measurements were combined with a finite element framework for DCT image reconstruction implemented into an existing software package. This technique was tested in computer simulations and using a tissue-like phantom with anomaly flow contrast design. The cylindrical tube-shaped anomaly was clearly reconstructed in both simulation and phantom. Recovered and assigned flow contrast changes in anomaly were found to be highly correlated: regression slope = 1.00, R(2) = 1.00, and p < 10(-5) in simulation and regression slope ≥ 0.97, R(2) ≥ 0.96, and p < 10(-3) in phantom. These results exhibit promise of our ncDCT technique for 3-D imaging of deep tissue blood flow heterogeneities.

SUBMITTER: Lin Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3971827 | biostudies-other | 2014 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-other