Imaging and Quantification of Microcirculatory Network within Tissue Beds in vivo using Optical Coherence Tomography

Abstract

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) which is an imaging modality based on Michelson interferometry of near-infrared broadband light has become one of the standard imaging modalities in ophthalmology and intravascular cardiology. In this thesis, we have developed tools and techniques to visualize quantify OCT angiography for translational applications. First, a clutter removal is proposed to suppress static and slowly moving tissue structures from moving red blood cells (RBCs) within the tissue. Then, RBC flow and relative flux is estimated using spectral estimation techniques. Then, a segmentation technique is developed to quantify lymphatic vessels within the tissue structures that appear as transparent tubular structures. Similar method based on Hessian filters is generalized to segment blood vessels for further quantification in OCT angiography. Finally, we utilize the developed tools and techniques for translational applications of OCT and OCT angiography for wound healing and studying complications of microvascular network induced by injection of cosmetic dermal fillers at capillary level. All of the above techniques are non-invasive, label-free, three-dimensional and in vivo.