In vivo laser computed tomographic imaging of human fingers by coherent detection imaging method using different wavelengths in near infrared region

We report in vivo laser computed tomographic images of the proximal interphalangeal joint region of a healthy human volunteer's index finger. The laser computed tomographic (CT) images were obtained with a highly sensitive coherent detection imaging method that is based on the optical heterodyne detection method. These laser CT images are compared at the wavelengths of 715 nm and 1.064 mu m and with images obtained by conventional imaging methods such as x-ray CT and magnetic resonance imaging. Internal structures of the proximal interphalangeal joint region could be clearly identified in the laser CT images. (C) 1996 American Institute of Physics.