Computer-generated holography enables high-uniformity, high-efficiency depth-of-focus extension in endoscopic OCT.

Abstract

Fiber-form optics extends the high-resolution tomographic imaging capabilities of optical coherence tomography (OCT) to the inside of the human body, i.e., endoscopic OCT. However, it still faces challenges due to the trade-off between probe size, resolution, and depth of focus (DOF). Here we introduce a method for extending the DOF in endoscopic OCT with high uniformity and efficiency. On the basis of multi-level diffractive optics, we leverage the multi-dimensional light-field modulation capabilities of computer-generated holography (CGH) to achieve precise control of the intensity distribution of the off-axis portion of the OCT probe light. Our method eliminates the need for an objective lens, allowing for direct fabrication at the distal facet of a single-mode fiber using femtosecond laser two-photon 3D printing. The superiority of our method has been verified through numerical simulation, beam measurement, and imaging results obtained with our home-built endoscopic OCT system.