Quantitative Phase Imaging for Tissue Scattering Parameter Mapping

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Solution Overview

Problem

Direct measurement of tissue scattering parameters such as scattering mean free path (MFP) and anisotropy factor is extremely challenging, limiting the clinical application of light scattering-based techniques for tissue diagnosis, particularly in cancer detection.

Innovation Solution

The use of spatial light interference microscopy (SLIM) to determine quantitative phase shifts and apply a generalized scatter-phase transformation to derive scattering parameters like MFP and anisotropy factor, enabling their mapping as a function of position in tissue samples, including biopsied breast and prostate tissues.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If direct measurement methods are used for scattering parameters, then measurement precision may be improved, but device complexity and difficulty of measurement increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvescattering parameter measurement precisionVSAvoiddifficulty of measuring scattering parameters

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses quantitative phase imaging as an intermediary measurement technique. Instead of directly measuring scattering parameters which is extremely difficult, the system measures optical path length changes (phase shifts) that are caused by scattering events. The phase shift data serves as a mediator that can be easily measured and then transformed to derive scattering parameters like mean free path and anisotropy factor.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex direct measurement systems with optical phase imaging. Instead of using complicated setups to directly measure scattering angles and intensities, the system uses spatial light interference microscopy to measure phase shifts, which are then mathematically transformed to obtain scattering parameters. This substitution simplifies the measurement apparatus while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Difficulty of detecting and measuring

If simulations are used to determine scattering parameters, then measurement difficulty is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement easeVSAvoidscattering parameter precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Difficulty of detecting and measuringVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the tissue sample itself serve as the measurement object through quantitative phase imaging. The phase shifts measured in the optical path directly reflect the scattering properties of the tissue. By using the transmission mode where light passes through the sample and phase changes are measured, the system obtains scattering information directly from the sample without requiring complex simulations or iterative fitting procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If conventional light scattering techniques are used, then diagnostic capability may be maintained, but objectivity and quantitative accuracy are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvediagnostic reliabilityVSAvoidloss of quantitative scattering information

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the measurement parameter from intensity-based scattering detection to phase-based optical path length measurement. By measuring the phase shift (optical path length change) rather than just intensity attenuation, the system obtains quantitative information about scattering events. The phase shift is proportional to the number of scattering events and the scattering angle distribution, providing objective and precise diagnostic data.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach allows for accurate, label-free detection of tissue characteristics and pathologies by providing spatially resolved scattering parameters, enhancing diagnostic objectivity and reducing the need for invasive procedures.

Implementation Method 1

spatial light interference microscopy (SLIM) to determine a quantitative phase shift

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight interference: Interference

Data Source

PatentUS8928887B2Characteristic parameters of cells and tissue from quantitative phase imaging

Publication Date: 2015.01.06 THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE UNIV OF ILLINOIS

AI summary

Methods mapping a characteristic parameter of a specimen, such as a scattering mean free path and a scattering anisotropy factor, based on a quantitative phase shift measurement. The methods have steps of using spatial light interference microscopy (SLIM) to determine a quantitative phase shift as a function of position in a sample, and applying a generalized scatter-phase transformation to derive at least one of a scattering mean free path (MFP), a scattering anisotropy factor, and a thickness-independent parameter as a function of position in the sample. In some cases, the sample may be a slice of tissue or a cell.