Imaging of small vessels using photoacoustics: an in vivo study.
OBJECTIVE
The ability to correctly visualize the architectural arrangement of microvasculature is valuable to many diverse fields in medicine. In this study, we applied photoacoustics (PA) to obtain high-resolution images of submillimeter blood vessels.


METHODS
Short laser pulses are used to generate ultrasound from superficial blood vessels in several animal models. From these ultrasound waves the interior of blood vessels can be reconstructed.


RESULTS
We present results from a novel approach based on the PA principle that allows specific in vivo visualization of dermal blood vessels without the use of contrast agents or ionizing radiation.


CONCLUSIONS
We show PA images of externalized blood vessels and demonstrate in vivo PA imaging of vasculature through layers of skin varying in thickness.
Siphanto
Ronald I
RI
Erasmus MC-University Medical Center Rotterdam, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 3000 DR Rotterdam, The Netherlands. rsiphanto@hotmail.com
Kolkman
Roy G M
RG
Huisjes
Arjan
A
Pilatou
Magdalena C
MC
de Mul
Frits F M
FF
Steenbergen
Wiendelt
W
van Adrichem
Leon N A
LN
D000162:Acoustics; D000818:Animals; D007834:Lasers; D008643:Mesentery / Q000098:blood supply*; D008833:Microcirculation / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D023421:Models, Animal; D011817:Rabbits; D051381:Rats; D012867:Skin / Q000098:blood supply*; D014463:Ultrasonography