Application of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) in Medical Imaging: Reconstruction of the Human Ear Canal from Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Scans

by Sandra Martin

This book presents a new approach for generating 3D models of the human ear using a novel imaging technology called Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). OCT performs high-resolution, cross-sectional tomographic imaging of the internal microstructure in materials and biological systems by measuring backscattered light. The idea is to use an OCT scanner to collect series of cross-sectional images, to compound these 2D images into a 3D volume andto extract the ear's surface. The goal is to provide an accurate model of the ear canal and concha for appropriate shaping of hearing aids. This book explains the methods that were developed to enable a 3D reconstruction of the human ear. An intelligent calibration process was devised for a reliable determination of the scanning parameters that are important for the 3D reconstruction.The evaluation of the developed methods shows that the correct parameters are calculated and that the canal of the ear can be reconstructed with satisfying results. This book is addressed to an audience of scientists, engineers, physicists and mathematicians who are interested in applications of OCT and new methods for generating 3D models of the human ear.

84 pages, Paperback

Published May 6, 2008