Imaging of small vessels using photoacoustics: An in vivo study

✍ Scribed by Ronald I. Siphanto; Roy G.M. Kolkman; Arjan Huisjes; Magdalena C. Pilatou; Frits F.M. de Mul; Wiendelt Steenbergen; Leon N.A. van Adrichem

• Publisher: John Wiley and Sons
• Year: 2004
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 396 KB
• Volume: 35
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0196-8092
• DOI: 10.1002/lsm.20100

✦ Synopsis

Abstract

Background and Objectives

The ability to correctly visualize the architectural arrangement of microvasculature is valuable to many diverse fields in medicine. In this study, we applied photoacoustics (PA) to obtain high‐resolution images of submillimeter blood vessels.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Short laser pulses are used to generate ultrasound from superficial blood vessels in several animal models. From these ultrasound waves the interior of blood vessels can be reconstructed.

Results

We present results from a novel approach based on the PA principle that allows specific in vivo visualization of dermal blood vessels without the use of contrast agents or ionizing radiation.

Conclusions

We show PA images of externalized blood vessels and demonstrate in vivo PA imaging of vasculature through layers of skin varying in thickness. Lasers Surg. Med. 35:354–362, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.