Optical Coherence Tomography and its Applications
in Endoscopy
Abstract
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a high-resolution, non-invasive imaging modality that provides cross-sectional, micrometer-scale visualization of tissue microstructure using low coherence interferometry. Often described as the optical analogue of ultrasound, OCT measures the echo time delay and intensity of backscattered light to generate real-time, depth-resolved images of biological tissues, typically achieving axial resolutions of 1–10 µm and penetration depths of 1–3 mm.
In endoscopy, OCT has emerged as a powerful adjunct to conventional white-light imaging by enabling in vivo “optical biopsy” without the need for tissue excision. Endoscopic OCT systems, including catheter-based and probe-based designs, have been applied extensively in the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory airways, and cardiovascular system. In gastroenterology, OCT allows detailed assessment of epithelial thickness, mucosal layering, glandular architecture, and subsurface abnormalities, aiding in the detection and staging of conditions such as Barrett’s esophagus, dysplasia, and early cancer. In cardiology, intravascular OCT is widely used to evaluate coronary artery disease by visualizing plaque morphology, fibrous caps, lipid pools, and stent apposition with exceptional clarity.
Advanced extensions such as polarization-sensitive OCT and OCT angiography further enhance functional and vascular contrast. Overall, endoscopic OCT provides structural and functional insights beyond surface imaging, supporting earlier diagnosis, and image-guided clinical decision-making.
Short Biography
Dr. Kanwarpal Singh is a researcher with expertise in biomedical optics and optical imaging, with a particular focus on optical coherence tomography (OCT) and its applications in biological and preclinical studies. His work integrates advanced optical microscopy, image processing, and tomographic imaging to investigate tissue structure and function in health and disease. He has strong experience in developing and applying OCT-based techniques for multi-depth imaging, quantitative tissue characterization, and correlation with histological and molecular markers. His current research interests include non-invasive imaging of the gut–heart axis, diet-induced inflammation, and cardiovascular and gastrointestinal pathologies using animal models. Dr. Singh is actively involved in interdisciplinary research bridging optics, biology, and translational medicine, and contributes to grant development, peer-reviewed publications, and training in biomedical imaging. His long-term goal is to advance label-free imaging technologies for early disease detection and mechanistic understanding of systemic disorders
