Mathematics of Photoacoustic and Thermoacoustic Tomography

TL;DR

This chapter surveys the mathematical models, problems, and algorithms underlying Thermoacoustic and Photoacoustic Tomography, which are advanced hybrid medical imaging methods combining electromagnetic and acoustic waves for improved resolution and contrast.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of the mathematical foundations, models, and algorithms for TAT and PAT, highlighting their development and significance in hybrid medical imaging.

Findings

TAT and PAT are highly developed hybrid imaging modalities.

These methods combine electromagnetic and acoustic waves for better imaging.

Mathematical models and algorithms are crucial for their advancement.

Abstract

This is the manuscript of the chapter for a planned Handbook of Mathematical Methods in Imaging that surveys the mathematical models, problems, and algorithms of the Thermoacoustic (TAT) and Photoacoustic (PAT) Tomography. TAT and PAT represent probably the most developed of the several novel ``hybrid'' methods of medical imaging. These new modalities combine different physical types of waves (electromagnetic and acoustic in case of TAT and PAT) in such a way that the resolution and contrast of the resulting method are much higher than those achievable using only acoustic or electromagnetic measurements.