A model for simulating speckle-pattern evolution based on close to reality procedures used in spectral-domain OCT

TL;DR

This paper presents a comprehensive model for simulating speckle pattern evolution in spectral-domain OCT, incorporating system parameters and tissue deformation to produce realistic images.

Contribution

It introduces a novel simulation model that closely mimics real spectral-domain OCT speckle patterns, considering various system and tissue factors.

Findings

Model reproduces real OCT speckle properties

Simulates effects of tissue deformation on speckle patterns

Aligns well with established OCT image features

Abstract

A robust model for simulating speckle pattern evolution in optical coherence tomography (OCT) depending on the OCT system parameters and tissue deformation is reported. The model is based on application of close to reality procedures used in spectral-domain OCT scanners. It naturally generates images reproducing properties of real images in spectral-domain OCT, including the pixelized structure and finite depth of unambiguous imaging, influence of the optical spectrum shape, dependence on the optical wave frequency and coherence length, influence of the tissue straining, etc. Good agreement with generally accepted speckle features and properties of real OCT images is demonstrated.