Real-Time Handheld Probe Tracking and Image Formation Using Digital Frequency-Domain Diffuse Optical Spectroscopy

Objective: Frequency-domain diffuse optical spectroscopic imaging (FD-DOS) is a non-invasive method for measuring absolute concentrations of tissue chromophores such as oxy- and deoxy-hemoglobin in vivo. The utility of FD-DOS for clinical applications such as monitoring chemotherapy response in breast cancer has previously been demonstrated, but challenges for further clinical translation, such as slow acquisition speed and lack of user feedback, remain. Here, we propose a new high speed FD-DOS instrument that allows users to freely acquire measurements over the tissue surface, and is capable of rapidly imaging large volumes of tissue. Methods: We utilize 3D monocular probe tracking combined with custom digital FD-DOS hardware and a high-speed data processing pipeline for the instrument. Results are displayed during scanning over the surface of the sample using a probabilistic Monte Carlo light propagation model. Results: We show this instrument can measure absorption and scattering coefficients with an error of 7% and 1% respectively, with 0.7 mm positional accuracy. We demonstrate the equivalence of our visualization methodology with a standard interpolation approach, and demonstrate two proof-of-concept in vivo results showing superficial vasculature in the human forearm and surface contrast in a healthy human breast. Conclusion: Our new FD-DOS system is able to compute chromophore concentrations in real-time (1.5 Hz) in vivo. Significance: This method has the potential to improve the quality of FD-DOS image scans while reducing measurement times for a variety of clinical applications.

Automated summary

The study introduces a new high-speed FD-DOS instrument that can compute chromophore concentrations in real-time, demonstrating accurate measurements and precise instrument positioning. The visualization methodology is proven to be equivalent to a standard interpolation approach, with successful in vivo results displaying superficial vasculature and surface contrast in a healthy human breast.