Our research has contributed
substantially to a new imaging modality, optical coherence
tomography (OCT). OCT provides cross-sectional images
of tissue microstructure at a resolution of 10 µm.
In addition, our lab is developing an endoscopic confocal
microscopy system that is capable of obtaining images
at a resolution of 1.0 µm through an endoscope
accessory port. Images obtained by OCT and endoscopic
confocal microscopy may be used to guide biopsies during
screening procedures and may potentially allow for primary
diagnosis at tissue sites where excisional biopsies
are difficult to obtain, such as the pancreatobiliary
tract and the cardiovascular system. Both OCT and endoscopic
confocal microscopy have been successfully transitioned
into the commercial sector.
My exposure to the field of pathology has complemented
my research by providing a foundation for the interpretation
of images obtained by these new non-invasive imaging
modalities. Dr. Tearney has established several active
collaborations within the Massachusetts General Hospital.
These collaborations involve pathologists, clinicians,
physicists and engineers and are conducting clinical
studies in the fields of Gastroenterology and Cardiology.
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