Needle-sized rigid endoscope using graded-index plastic optical fiber

Abstract

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We have developed a prototype of a needle-sized rigid endoscope using graded-index plastic optical fiber (GI-POF) technology. With highly accurate control of refractive index within a GI-POF, we can utilize it for an ultra-fine lens as a replacement for a relay lens in rigid endoscope. The rigid endoscope with GI-POF lens has a possibility to allow doctors to directly observe a patient's inner affected area before and after surgery in a minimally invasive procedure, enabling rapid and accurate assessment of the patient's condition and efficient post-operative follow-up.