Emerging Photoacoustic Imaging Techniques for Peripheral Arterial Disease.

Purpose of review: Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) has emerged as a promising non-ionizing modality that leverages optical absorption contrast to provide both anatomical and functional insights into vascular health. This review examines recent advances in PAI technologies applied to the diagnosis, assessment, and management of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The goal is to evaluate how emerging PAI techniques address current diagnostic limitations and to identify opportunities for clinical integration.

Recent findings: Recent studies have demonstrated the potential of PAI to capture high-resolution, dynamic images of peripheral vasculature, quantify oxygen saturation and regional blood volume, and assess microvascular health. Technological innovations, including single-shot volumetric imaging, all-optical scanners, and multimodal systems, have expanded PAI's clinical utility.

Summary: Emerging PAI systems show promise for complementing traditional imaging by providing functional insights into microvascular health. Continued technological development and validation through large-scale studies are essential for establishing PAI's clinical role in PAD diagnosis and management.