Physiological sensing through tissue with femto-second laser radiation

Abstract

Application of femtosecond radiation for optical diagnostics through biological media offers opportunities for minimally invasive therapeutic applications. Interrogation of soft tissue behind hard tissue (e.g. bone) becomes feasible. The optical interaction for a femto second laser pulse is investigated with a hydroxyapatite fixture in representation of bone. Photo-acoustic spectroscopy is preferably applied for the identification and determination of location of optical anomalies in an otherwise homogeneous medium. Application of opto acoustic imaging presents an advantageous mechanism-of-action for imaging through, for instance bone, specifically applied to brain tumors. Furthermore, increase in irradiance levels allows us to use femto second laser radiation for therapy.