Measurement of morphologic changes induced by trauma with the use of coherence tomography in porcine vocal cords.

Abstract

To evaluate the ability of optical coherence tomography (OCT) (a noncontact, high-resolution imaging technique that generates detailed cross-sectional images of tissue structure) to image and document acute response to trauma in the larynx. Porcine larynges were dissected to expose the vocal cords. Vocal cords were imaged with 1310 nanometer (nm) light source with a bandwidth of 75 nm at 1 frame/second (s). Vocal cord injuries were simulated by applying topical phenolic acid, injecting titanium dioxide into the submucosa, and carbon dioxide laser irradiation. The epithelium, basement membrane, and lamina propria were clearly delineated, and the effect of each intervention could be monitored as lesions progressed. The OCT image corresponded closely with histology. OCT is a powerful imaging tool with the potential for use in real time and has potential for multiple clinical applications in the larynx.