Dual modality probe for photoacoustic tomography and widefield endoscopy (Conference Presentation)

Minimally invasive procedures are increasingly being preferred over the conventional open procedures as it offers range of benefits to the patients such as quick recovery time, reduced infection rates, minimal tissue damage and scarring. However, in situ assessment of malignancies and identification of tumour margins remains a challenge with existing intraoperative imaging techniques. We present a novel laparoscopic probe that provides co-registered photoacoustic (PA) and white light endoscopy images. With the help of PA contrast, the probe can visualise depth-resolved microvasculature and thus offers the prospect of more sensitive detection of tumours based on abnormal vascular anatomy and function.