3D imaging of vascular anomalies using raster-scanning optoacoustic mesoscopy

Objectives Vascular anomalies such as capillary malformations (CMs) and infantile hemangiomas (IHs) are common pediatric vascular disorders that are treated with therapeutic laser. The treatment method, however, relies on subjective evaluation of clinical findings and can have unpredictable results. Raster-scanning optoacoustic mesoscopy (RSOM) is an innovative imaging technology using pulsed-light laser to excite hemoglobin, generating ultrasound waves that are converted into three-dimensional images of tissues. RSOM can provide objective information about superficial structures such as the microvasculature of vascular anomalies. Materials and Methods In this study, we explore the clinical potential of RSOM to study vascular anomalies before and after laser treatment. We scanned nine patients with CM (n = 6) and IH (n = 3) who underwent laser treatment and calculated the blood vessel volume. Results Overall, there was a posttreatment volume increase in CM, and a decrease in IH. Conclusion These findings support the possibility that RSOM may have a role in developing an objective method of evaluating these lesions, leading to a tailored treatment approach and avoidance of adverse outcomes.

Automated summary

This study explores the clinical potential of raster-scanning optoacoustic mesoscopy (RSOM) in the treatment of vascular anomalies. By scanning and calculating blood vessel volume, it was found that CM showed an increase in volume after treatment, while IH showed a decrease. These findings suggest that RSOM may contribute to developing an objective method for evaluating vascular lesions.