Spectral encoding enhances visual flexibility of surgical endoscopes

Abstract

Endoscope cameras play an important and growing role as a diagnostic and surgical tool. The endoscope camera is usually used to provide a view of the scene straight ahead of the instrument to the operator. As is common in many remotely operated systems, the limited field of view and the inability to pan the camera make it challenging to gain a situational awareness comparable to an operator with direct access to the scene. We present a spectral multiplexing technique for endoscopes that allows for overlay of the existing forward view with additional views at different angles to increase the effective field of view of the device. Our goal is to provide peripheral vision while minimally affecting the design and forward image quality of existing systems.