Dispersion encoded full range frequency domain OCT

We propose an algorithm that effectively cancels complex conjugate mirror terms from single OCT A-scans by utilizing the dispersion mismatch between reference and sample arm to generate full range tomograms. This allows distinguishing between complex conjugate mirror terms and real structures and is therefore called dispersion encoded full range (DEFR). Whereas the computational complexity is higher, acquisition speed is not compromised since no additional A-scans need to be measured which makes this technique also robust against phase fluctuations. The iterative algorithm uses numeric dispersion compensation and exhibits no reduction in resolution compared to standard processing. Residual leakage of mirror terms is reduced by incorporating further knowledge such as the power spectrum of the light source. The suppression ratio of mirror signals is more than 50 dB and thus comparable to other complex FD-OCT techniques which use more than one A-scan.

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