Coherent-detection imaging through biological tissues and tissuelike phantoms in the 0.8–1.3-μm region

Using a laser to image inside or through biological tissues is of increased interest for the early detection of tumors and other medical examinations. By spectroscopically assessing tissue properties, normal and diseased tissues may be distinguished as well. Recently, we have shown micrometer-resolution images in tissuelike phantoms by using the excellent antenna properties and high sensitivity of optical heterodyne detection.1 In this paper we report coherent-detection imaging through thick biological tissue with a better than 500-μm resolution in the 0.8–1.3-μm wavelength region. Measured results of light scattering in tissuelike phantoms at different wavelengths are also presented.