Dynamic color schlieren imaging of Nd:YAG laser-induced temperature distribution in a tissue model: a pilot study (AGGREGATION CH 2)

Abstract

Visualization of spatial temperature distribution in tissue is complicated. Schlieren imaging is an optical technique to visualize temperature gradients in transparent media. A transparent polyacrylamide gel may serve as a model for laser tissue interaction. Spatial distribution of Nd:YAG laser-induced temperature distribution is investigated in a polyacrylamide gel using a dynamic color schlieren technique, comparing contact and free beam laser exposure. An attempt is made to calibrate the gel for canine prostate tissue.