Journal des lasers, optiques et photoniques

Optical Coherence Tomography: Unveiling the Hidden World with Laser Light

Abstract

Dennis Walter*

In the realm of medical imaging, one technology stands out for its remarkable ability to reveal the hidden intricacies of biological tissues optical Coherence Tomography Using laser light, OCT has revolutionized our understanding of both the micro and macroscopic structures within living organisms. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of OCT, exploring its principles, applications, and its potential to transform the way we diagnose and treat various medical conditions. To appreciate the workings of OCT, we must first understand the fundamental properties of light. Light is an electromagnetic wave characterized by its wavelength, frequency, and velocity. In the visible spectrum, different colors of light correspond to varying wavelengths, with red light having longer wavelengths and blue light having shorter wavelengths. Interference is a crucial concept in OCT. When two light waves of the same wavelength overlap, they can either amplify or cancel each other out, depending on whether they are in-phase or out-of-phase. Coherence, in this context, refers to the consistency of the phase relationship between these waves. OCT relies on the Michelson interferometer, a device that splits an incident beam of light into two paths and then recombines them.