Continuous scanning full-field OCT for fast volumetric imaging of multi-cellular aggregates

Abstract

Full-field optical coherence tomography (FF-OCT) offers label-free, high-resolution imaging of biological samples but remains limited by slow acquisition due to piezoelectric mirror modulation. We present a continuous-scanning FF-OCT method that eliminates piezoelectric displacement and synchronization by continuously translating the sample with a motorized stage while recording images on the fly. Depth-resolved information is retrieved via Fourier analysis of the temporal signal at each pixel. This approach enables volumetric imaging over several hundred micrometers within tens of seconds and provides a higher contrast-to-noise ratio than traditional four-phase FF-OCT. Continuous-scanning FF-OCT thus represents a simpler and faster alternative for 3D bio-imaging of living tissues and organoids.