Characterizing of tissue microstructure with single-detector polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography.

Assessing tissue birefringence with imaging modality polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography (PS-OCT) could improve the characterization of in vivo tissue pathology. Among the birefringent components, collagen may provide invaluable clinical information because of its alteration in disorders ranging from myocardial infarction to arthritis. But the features required of clinical imaging modality in these areas usually include the ability to assess the parameter of interest rapidly and without extensive data analysis, the characteristics that single-detector PS-OCT demonstrates.

Assessment of coronary plaque collagen with polarization sensitive optical coherence tomography (PS-OCT).

Introduction: Current evidence indicates that most plaques classified as vulnerable or ruptured plaque do not lead to unstable angina or myocardial infarction. Improved methods are needed to risk stratify plaques to identify those which lead to most acute coronary syndromes. Collagen depletion in the intima overlying lipid collections appears to be a critical component of unstable plaques.