Minimally-invasive common-path OCT system for neurosurgery applications.

We present a minimally-invasive common-path optical coherence tomography (OCT) system operating at 1310 nm with a novel forward viewing monolithic endoscope designed specifically for neurosurgical applications with real-time 3D imaging capabilities. This system's real-time tissue identification capability could enhance the accuracy of stereotactic surgeries, including deep brain stimulation and biopsy, while its ability to detect blood flow could significantly reduce the risk of hemorrhage. The system was successfully tested in vivo in a rabbit cohort.