Background and objective: 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.
Materials and methods: 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.
Results: 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.
Conclusion: OCT is a powerful imaging tool with the potential for use in real time and has potential for multiple clinical applications in the larynx.