Introduction to OCT

Abstract

This chapter is an introduction to the book Optical Coherence Tomography: Technology and Applications. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) enables cross sectional and volumetric imaging of internal structure and pathology in biological tissues. OCT can perform “optical biopsy,” imaging pathology in situ and in real time without the need for excision and tissue processing. OCT imaging has become a standard of care in ophthalmology and is an emerging imaging modality in cardiology, where it can provide real time information on structure, pathology and function. This chapter reviews the early history of OCT development with an emphasis on basic concepts and the process of technology translation. Early OCT instruments, imaging devices and results, as well as advances in imaging speed using spectral/Fourier domain and swept source/Fourier domain detection are reviewed. The process of clinical translation beginning with ex vivo imaging and histology, progressing to clinical studies is discussed. This history of commercial OCT development is also summarized.