Optical coherence tomography: Clinical applications in gastrointestinal endoscopy

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a high-resolution imaging modality that uses principles of light interferometry. It has achieved clinical application in several other specialties such as ophthalmology and cardiology where its high resolution and deeper penetration into the surface permits much more detailed examination of the mucosa. In the field of gastroenterology, the technology has evolved through several iterations beginning with a focal magnifying imaging technique and evolving into currently a widefield imaging modality that can scan a relatively large area of mucosa with high resolution. OCT has been used to detect dysplasia in Barrett’s esophagus, differentiate between inflammatory bowel disease subtypes, and define pancreaticobiliary strictures, among other applications. This chapter provides an overview of the principles of OCT and its applications in gastrointestinal imaging with emphasis on recently commercially available OCT technologies.