Non-interferometric deep optical resolution photoacoustic remote sensing microscopy (Conference Presentation)

A novel all-optical non-contact photoacoustic microscopy system is introduced. The confocal configuration is used to ensure detection of initial pressure shock wave-induced intensity reflections at the subsurface origin where pressures are largest. Phantom studies confirm signal dependence on optical absorption, index-contrast, and excitation fluence. Taking advantage of a focused1310 nm interrogation beam, the penetration depth of the system is improved to ~ 2mm for an optical resolution system. High signal-to-noise ratios (>60dB) with ~ 2.5 cm working distance from the objective lens to the sample is achieved. Real-time in-vivo imaging of microvasculature and melanoma tumors are demonstrated.