Abstract:
Exemplary apparatus for obtaining information for a structure can be provided. For example, the exemplary apparatus can include at least one first optical fiber arrangement which is configured to transceive at least one first electro-magnetic radiation, and can include at least one fiber. The exemplary apparatus can also include at least one second focusing arrangement in optical communication with the optical fiber arrangement. The second arrangement can be configured to focus and provide there through the first electro-magnetic radiation to generate the focused electro-magnetic radiation. Further, the exemplary apparatus can include at least at least one dispersive third arrangement which can receive a particular radiation (e.g., the first electro-magnetic radiation(s) and/or the focused electro-magnetic radiation), and forward a dispersed radiation thereof to at least one section of the structure.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S) 
       [0001]    The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/427,463 filed Mar. 22, 2012, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/623,852 filed Jan. 17, 2007. This application is also based upon and claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60/760,139, filed Jan. 19, 2006. The entire disclosures of such applications are incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH 
       [0002]    The invention was made with the U.S. Government support under Contract No. BES-0086709 awarded by the National Science Foundation. Thus, the U.S. Government has certain rights in the invention. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    The present invention relates generally to apparatus and method for spectrally encoded endoscopy and, more particularly to, e.g., apparatus for obtaining information for a structure using spectrally-encoded endoscopy techniques and method for producing one or more optical arrangements. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0004]    Certain medical and technical applications utilize an ability to look inside the patient&#39;s body or use a particular device when the available pathways for probe advancement are of very narrow diameter (e.g., small vessels, small ducts, small needles, cracks etc.). 
         [0005]    Conventional miniature endoscopes are generally composed of fiber-optic imaging bundles. These conventional instruments have diameters that range of from approximately 250 μm to 1.0 mm. Since optical fibers have a finite diameter, a limited number of fibers can be incorporated into one imaging bundle, resulting in a limited number of resolvable elements. The resultant image resolution and field of view provided by these imaging devices may be insufficient for obtaining endoscopic images of diagnostic quality in patients. The use of multiple fibers for imaging also increases the rigidity of the endoscopes, likely resulting in a bend radius of approximately 5 cm for the smallest probes in a clinical use. These technical limitations of fiber bundle microendoscopes, including a low number of resolvable points and increased rigidity, have limited the widespread use of miniature endoscopy in medicine. 
         [0006]    U.S. Pat. No. 6,134,003 describes spectrally encoded endoscopy (“SEE”) techniques and arrangements which facilitate the use of a single optical fiber to transmit one-dimensional (e.g., line) image by spectrally encoding one spatial axis. By mechanically scanning this image line in the direction perpendicular thereto, a two dimensional image of the scanned plane can be obtained outside of the probe. This conventional technology provides a possibility for designing the probes that are of slightly bigger diameter than an optical fiber. Probes in approximately 100 μm diameter range may be developed using such SEE technology. 
         [0007]    SEE techniques and systems facilitate a simultaneous detection of most or all points along a one-dimensional line of the image. Encoding the spatial information on the sample can be accomplished by using a broad spectral bandwidth light source as the input to a single optical fiber endoscope. 
         [0008]      FIG. 1  shows one such exemplary SEE system/probe  100 . For example, at a distal end of the exemplary system/probe  100 , light provided by the source can be transmitted via an optical fiber  110 , and collimated by a collimating lens  120 . Further, the source spectrum of the light can be dispersed by a dispersing element  130  (e.g., a diffracting grating), and focused by a lens  140  onto the sample. This optical configuration can provide an illumination of the sample with an array of focused spots  150  (e.g., on a wavelength-encoded axis), where each position (e.g., on the x-axis) can be encoded by a different wavelength (l). Following the transmission back through the optical fiber, the reflectance as a function of transverse location can be determined by measuring the reflected spectrum. High-speed spectral detection can occur externally to the probe and, as a result, the detection of one line of image data may not necessarily increase the diameter of the exemplary system/probe  100 . The other dimension (e.g., y, slow scan axis) of the image can be obtained by mechanically scanning the optical fiber and distal optics at a slower rate. 
         [0009]    Accordingly, it may be beneficial to address and/or overcome at least some of the deficiencies described herein above. 
       OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0010]    One of the objectives of the present invention is to overcome certain deficiencies and shortcomings of the prior art systems and methods (including those described herein above), and provide exemplary embodiments of systems and methods for generating data using one or more endoscopic microscopy techniques and, more particularly to e.g., generating such data using one or more high-resolution endoscopic microscopy techniques. 
         [0011]    For example, certain exemplary embodiments of the present invention can facilitate the use and production of narrow diameter optical fiber probes that use exemplary SEE techniques. Certain procedures and configuration to achieve the preferable optical and mechanical functionality at the distal end of a narrow diameter fiber optical probe for SEE can be provided. 
         [0012]    Different exemplary embodiments can be provided to incorporate the exemplary SEE optical functionality at a tip of the optical fiber in accordance with certain concepts of the present invention. For example, different types of fibers can be used depending on the spectral region and the size/flexibility preferences, e.g., single mode, multimode or double clad fibers can be used. 
         [0013]    In one exemplary embodiment of the SEE system, the same channel can be used for illumination and collecting of the reflected light. Double clad fiber can be employed for improving the collecting efficiency and minimizing the speckle in the exemplary SEE system. For example, a regular telecommunication single mode fiber SMF28 can be used. 
         [0014]    According to a particular exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for obtaining information for a structure according to the present invention can be provided. For example, the exemplary apparatus can include at least one first optical fiber arrangement which is configured to transceive at least one first electro-magnetic radiation, and can include at least one fiber. The exemplary apparatus can also include at least one second focusing arrangement in optical communication with the optical fiber arrangement. The second arrangement can be configured to focus and provide there through the first electro-magnetic radiation. Further, the exemplary apparatus can include at least one third dispersive arrangement which is configured to receive a particular radiation which is the first electro-magnetic radiation and/or the focused electro-magnetic radiation, and forward a dispersed radiation thereof to at least one section of the structure. At least one end of the fiber can be directly connected to the second focusing arrangement and/or the third dispersive arrangement. 
         [0015]    According to still another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the end and/or the section can be directly connected to the third dispersive arrangement. The second focusing arrangement can include at least one optical element which may be directly connected the end. The second arrangement may include an optical component with a numerical aperture of at most 0.2, and the optical element may be directly connected the optical component. The second arrangement may include an optical component with a numerical aperture of at most 0.2. The end may be directly connected to the optical component. 
         [0016]    In yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the particular radiation can include a plurality of wavelengths and/or a single wavelength that changes over time. The third dispersive arrangement may be configured to spatially separate the particular radiation into a plurality of signals having differing center wavelengths. The first, second and third arrangement can be provided in a monolithic configuration. The third dispersive arrangement may be a fiber grating, a blazed grating, a grism, a dual prism, a binary, prism and/or a holographic lens grating. The second focusing arrangement can include a gradient index lens, a reflective mirror lens grating combination and/or a diffractive lens. 
         [0017]    According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, at least one fourth arrangement can be provided which is configured to control a focal distance of the second focusing arrangement. The third dispersive arrangement may include a balloon. The second focusing arrangement and the third dispersive arrangement can be provided in a single arrangement. The single arrangement may be a holographic arrangement and/or a diffractive arrangement. 
         [0018]    In addition, an exemplary embodiment of a method for producing an optical arrangement can be provided. For example, a first set of optical elements having a first size in a first configuration and a second set of optical elements in cooperation with the second set and having a second size in a second configuration can be provided. The first and second sets can be clamped into a third set of optical elements. The third set can be polished, and a further set of optical elements may be deposited on the polished set. 
         [0019]    According to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first set and/or the second set can be at least one set of cylindrical optical elements. At least one of the cylindrical optical elements may be an optical fiber. The third set may be polished at an angle with respect to the extension of at least one of the optical elements. The angle can substantially correspond to a Littrow&#39;s angle and/or be substantially greater than 1 degree. The further set may be a grating, and/or can include a diffractive optical element. A layer can be applied between elements of the first set and/or the second set. The layer may be composed of a thin material and/or a soft material. 
         [0020]    Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description of embodiments of the invention, when taken in conjunction with the appended claims. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0021]    Further objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures showing illustrative embodiments of the present invention, in which: 
           [0022]      FIG. 1  is a schematic diagram of a procedure for implementing one-dimensional space-to-spectrum encoding; 
           [0023]      FIG. 2  is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an SEE imaging system/probe; 
           [0024]      FIG. 3  is a schematic diagram of another exemplary embodiment of the SEE imaging system/probe, in which a prism is used as a dispersing element; 
           [0025]      FIG. 4  is a schematic diagram of an additional exemplary embodiment of the SEE imaging system/probe, in which a micro spherical lens is used with the grating following a lens; 
           [0026]      FIG. 5  is a schematic diagram of a further exemplary embodiment of the SEE imaging system/probe, which has a micro spherical lens design with the grating before the lens; 
           [0027]      FIG. 6  is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a micro spherical lens configuration with the grating provided before the lens, and in which the lens can be formed by a drop of optical epoxy at a tip of a fiber; 
           [0028]      FIG. 7  is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an endoscopic system/probe that can use a holographic optical element (“HOE”) formed in a drop of photosensitized polymer combining the functionality of expansion, focusing and dispersing regions; 
           [0029]      FIG. 8  is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the endoscopic system/probe assembly that may be non-monolithic to facilitate zooming and/or refocusing; 
           [0030]      FIG. 9A  is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the endoscopic system/probe assembly having monolithic distal optics and a grism as a dispersing element in an exemplary configuration for side imaging; 
           [0031]      FIG. 9B  is a schematic diagram of another exemplary embodiment of the endoscopic system/probe assembly having monolithic distal optics and a double prism grism as a dispersing element in an exemplary configuration for forward imaging; 
           [0032]      FIG. 10A  is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a cylindrical grating substrate with a tilted base for a Littrow regime; 
           [0033]      FIG. 10B  is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a prismatic grating substrate with a tilted base for the Littrow regime; 
           [0034]      FIG. 10C  is a schematic diagram of another exemplary embodiment of the cylindrical grating substrate with a mirror tilted base and flatten side for the Littrow regime; 
           [0035]      FIG. 10D  is a schematic diagram another exemplary embodiment of the prismatic grating substrate with a mirror tilted base for the Littrow regime; 
           [0036]      FIG. 11A  is a schematic diagram of yet another exemplary embodiment of the endoscopic system/probe assembly in an exemplary balloon catheter configuration, in which approximately all of the optical functionality is transferred to the balloon by via HOE that is deposited on the balloon surface; 
           [0037]      FIG. 11B  is a schematic diagram of still another exemplary embodiment of the endoscopic system/probe assembly in balloon catheter configuration, in which at least some optical functionality is transferred to the balloon by the use of high refractive index transparent liquid to fill a thin wall balloon to form an inflatable focusing lens; 
           [0038]      FIG. 12  is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a catheter system/probe delivery technique using an exemplary guide catheter; 
           [0039]      FIG. 13  is a schematic diagram of another exemplary embodiment of a catheter system/probe delivery procedure using an exemplary biopsy needle; 
           [0040]      FIG. 14  is a flow diagram of a method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention for making the exemplary embodiment of the SEE system/probe shown in  FIG. 2 ; and 
           [0041]      FIG. 15  is an illustration of procedural steps of an exemplary embodiment of a process for mounting grating substrates which can be facilitated for an exemplary grating fabrication process. 
       
    
    
       [0042]    Throughout the figures, the same reference numerals and characters, unless otherwise stated, are used to denote like features, elements, components or portions of the illustrated embodiments. Moreover, while the subject invention will now be described in detail with reference to the figures, it is done so in connection with the illustrative embodiments. It is intended that changes and modifications can be made to the described embodiments without departing from the true scope and spirit of the subject invention as defined by the appended claims. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS 
       [0043]    Prior to providing a detailed description of the various exemplary embodiments of the methods and systems for endoscopic microscopy according to the present invention, some introductory concepts and terminology are provided below. As used herein, the term “endoscopic probe” can be used to describe one or more portions of an exemplary embodiment of an endoscopic system, which can be inserted into a human or animal body in order to obtain an image of tissue within the body. 
         [0044]    Prior to describing the exemplary embodiments of the systems and/or probes for spectrally encoded endoscopy according to the present invention, certain exemplary concepts and terminology are provided herein. For example, the term “endoscopic probe” may be used to describe a portion of an endoscopic system, which can be inserted into a human body in order to obtain an image of tissue within the human body. The term “monolithic” may be used to describe a structure formed as a single piece, which can have more than one optical function. The term “hybrid” may be used to describe a structure formed as a plurality of pieces, e.g., each piece having one optical function. 
         [0045]    The exemplary embodiments of the system, apparatus, probe and method described herein can apply to any wavelength of light or electro-magnetic radiation, including but not limited to visible light and near infrared light. 
         [0046]      FIG. 2  shows an exemplary embodiment of a SEE imaging system/probe  200  (e.g., endoscopic probe having a single mode fiber that deliver light from a light source to the tip of the fiber) which can include an optical fiber  210 , an expansion region  220 , a focusing region  230 , an angled region  240  and a dispersing element  250  (e.g., grating). The exemplary system/probe  200  can generate a spectrally encoded imaging signal, e.g., a line  260  on the imaged surface with the longer wavelengths  280  deviated further from the probe axis than the shorter wavelengths  270 . 
         [0047]    The optical fiber  210  can be a single-mode fiber and/or a multi-mode fiber (e.g., preferably single mode for preserving the phase relation of the source light and the light remitted by the sample). By facilitation a light delivery through the optical fiber  210 , SEE capabilities can be provided in a catheter or endoscope. Thus, a high-resolution microscopy of surfaces of the body accessible by endoscope can be facilitated by the exemplary embodiment of the system/probe  200 . 
         [0048]    A multiple of (e.g., four) distinct regions with specific optical properties can be used to determine the system/probe functionality. 
         [0049]    For example, the expansion region can be used to facilitate the beam that is confined in the fiber core to expand and fill an aperture. The expansion region can be composed of optical glass (e.g., a piece of coreless fiber spliced to the main fiber and then cleaved to a predetermined length), optical epoxy, air, or transparent fluid. Index matching with the fiber core may be desirable for reducing the back reflection from the interface between the fiber and the expansion region. Other techniques and/or arrangements for reducing the back reflection, e.g., anti-reflection coating or angle cleaving, can be employed in case of air or other non-matching media used as an expansion region. 
         [0050]    In the focusing region, the diverging beam can be transformed to a converging one. For example, a gradient index (“GRIN”) lens or spherical micro lens can be used as shall be described in more detail below with reference to other exemplary embodiments. For example, the GRIN lens can be made by splicing a piece of GRIN fiber and cleaving it to a predetermined length. The spherical lens can be formed on the coreless fiber tip by melting it, by polishing, or by applying a small measured amount of optical epoxy. 
         [0051]    The angled region can be used to support the dispersing element and/or provide an incidence tilt for the output direction and/or the desired regime (Litrow) in certain cases (e.g., a diffraction grating). As with the expansion region, different media can be used, and different techniques and/or arrangements for obtaining the desired tilt can be employed. For example, some of such exemplary techniques can include angle cleaving, polishing, molding of the optical epoxy etc. 
         [0052]    The dispersing element can tilt different parts of the incident spectrum at different angles, thus producing the desired spatial spread of the incident light. It can be a prism made of high dispersion material or a high efficiency diffracting grating. It is possible to also produce a grating at the fiber tip. For example, transmitting or reflecting gratings can be used in different regimes depending on the application. 
         [0053]    Other numerous combinations and permutations of the above-mentioned regions can provide a functional system/probe, certain exemplary embodiments of which shall be described in further detail below. For example, two general types of dispersing elements can be used: prism or diffracting grating. The holographic optical element that combines the dispersing power of the grating and the focusing power of a lens can also be used as shown in  FIG. 7 . 
         [0054]    Prism made of dispersing material can be used when the light source has a very broad spectrum, e.g., a femto-second laser source with microstructured fiber for super-continuum generation. In such exemplary source, the spectrum can span in visible and near infrared. 
         [0055]      FIG. 3  shows another exemplary embodiment of the SEE system/probe  300  which can include a single mode optical fiber  310  spliced to a coreless fiber  320  (e.g., the expansion region). Further, a short piece of gradient refracting index (GRIN) fiber  330  can be spliced to the coreless fiber (e.g., the focusing region). In addition, another short piece of coreless fiber  340  can be spliced to the focusing region  330 . The output surface  350  may be angle polished/cleaved, thus forming a refracting boundary between the fiber  340  and the external medium  355  (e.g., air, water or other liquid). In  FIG. 3 , an exemplary use of the prism  340  is illustrated as a dispersive element. With an anti-reflecting coating on the output surface  350 , this exemplary configuration can provide a high transmission efficiency. It may be desirable for the angled region to be made of a highly dispersive material. In the case of a normal dispersion, longer wavelength parts of the original spectrum  370  may deviate less than the shorter wavelengths  380 , thus forming the imaging line  360 . 
         [0056]    Diffracting gratings can be preferable in the case of narrow band source because of the higher dispersing power that can be achieved with such gratings. For example, the transmission and reflection diffracting gratings can be used.  FIG. 5  shows a schematic diagram of a further exemplary embodiment of the SEE imaging system/probe  500 , which has a micro spherical lens  530  with a grating  550  provided before the lens  530  use of the reflection diffracting grating. In other exemplary configuration, the use of reflection diffracting grating utilizes a housing that can enlarge the system/probe. The additional details of the exemplary embodiment of the SEE system/probe  500  shall be described in further detail below. 
         [0057]    The selected dispersing element can be a transmission diffracting grating. It is also possible to use other grating, e.g., a volume holographic grating or a surface phase grating. The volume holographic gratings can exhibit a higher efficiency, but are less common, and some of the materials used therefore generally require sealing from the humidity, as well as more expensive and difficult to replicate. The surface phase gratings may be less efficient, but are easy to replicate and mass-produce when a master grating is made. For both of these exemplary elements, the grating can be a thin film (˜5-10 μm) that is applied to the angled region. 
         [0058]      FIG. 4  shows another exemplary embodiment of the SEE system/probe  400  which can include a single mode optical fiber  410  spliced to a coreless fiber  420 . In this exemplary embodiment, the tip of the expansion region  420  can be melted to form a small spherical surface  425 , and then a low refractive index epoxy  430  may be used to attach the grating  440  at an angle to the system/probe  400 . In this exemplary system/probe  400 , the focusing region can be the surface that separates the expansion region and the angled region. The longer wavelengths  460  of the original spectrum may deviate more than the shorter wavelengths  470 , thus possibly forming the imaging line  450 . 
         [0059]      FIG. 5  shows the exemplary SEE probe  500  described above, which can include a single mode optical fiber  510  spliced to a coreless fiber  520 . The tip of the expansion region  520  can be melted to form a ball  530 . The ball may be polished at an angle (Littrow) and on the flat surface  540  that can result from this exemplary procedure, a reflecting grating  550  may be deposited. The light beam can expand in the expansion section after exiting an end  510  of the core of the optical fiber  510 , and may then be dispersed by the grating  550 . Different monochromatic beams that can result may then be focused by the near spherical surface of the glass ball to form the imaging line  560 . The dispersing element may be provided before the focusing element. The longer wavelengths  580  of the original spectrum may deviate more than the shorter wavelengths  570 . 
         [0060]      FIG. 6  shows another exemplary embodiment of the SEE system/probe  600  which may include a single mode optical fiber  610  spliced to a short piece of coreless fiber  620  that may be angle cleaved or polished at an angle (which can be the Littrow angle for the grating  630 ) and the grating  630  may be deposited on the tip of the expansion region  620 . A drop of an optical epoxy  640  can be cured at the tip of the fiber  610  to protect the transmission grating  630  and form the focusing surface  650 . The dispersing element  630  can be provided before the focusing element  650 , and the expansion region  620  and the angled region  620  may coincide. The longer wavelengths  670  of the original spectrum may deviate more than the shorter wavelengths  680  to form the imaging line  660 . 
         [0061]      FIG. 7  shows yet another exemplary embodiment of the SEE system/probe  700 , which can include a single mode optical fiber  710 . A holographic optical element (“HOE”)  730  written in a drop of photosensitive polymer  720  can incorporate the optical functionality of the expansion, focusing and dispersing elements. The longer wavelengths  750  of the original spectrum can deviate more than the shorter wavelengths  760  to form the imaging line  740 . 
         [0062]      FIG. 8  shows still another exemplary embodiment of the SEE system/probe  800  which can include a static monolithic core  810  and a spinning flexible thin wall Teflon tubing  820  with the angled region  850  attached to its end. An optical fiber  830 , an expansion region  835 , and a focusing region  840  may be attached/glued/spliced together to form the core  810 . A dispersing element/grating  857  can be deposited on the tilted output surface of the angled region  850 . The glass-to-air interfaces of the focusing region  840   845  and the angled region  850   853  may be anti-reflection coated. Changing the gap between such elements by advancing the core  810  can effectively change the distance  880  of the imaging line  860  to the output surface of the system/probe  800  (e.g., the grating  875 ). 
         [0063]    Exemplary non-monolithic configurations similar to those shown in the exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 8  can allow for additional functionality such as zooming and/or focusing to be provided in the distal probe end. Multi-lens configurations may also be implemented. 
         [0064]    The use of a prism-grating combination (grism) may facilitate a control of the angle of incidence and the probe output direction. Exemplary arrangement which implements such configurations are shown in  FIG. 9A  and  FIG. 9B . In particular,  FIG. 9A  shows a further exemplary embodiment of the SEE imaging system/probe  900  which can include a static sheath  905  with a transparent window  908  and a monolithic optical core  910  that can be scanned. The core can include an optical fiber  915 , an expansion region  917 , a focusing element (e.g., a GRIN lens)  920 , and a prism  925  with the grating  930  deposited on its output surface. The optical elements may be maintained together with a micro mechanical housing  940 . This exemplary configuration may represent a side looking imaging system/probe. 
         [0065]      FIG. 9B  shows still another exemplary embodiment of the SEE imaging system/probe  950  which can include a static sheath  955  with a transparent window  958  and a monolithic optical core  960  that can be scanned. The core can include an optical fiber  965 , an expansion region  967 , and a focusing element (GRIN lens)  970 . A grating  980  may be sandwiched between prisms  975  and  977 . The optical elements may be maintained together with a micro mechanical housing  990 . This exemplary configuration can represent a forward-looking imaging system/probe. 
         [0066]    It may be beneficial for this exemplary application to utilize a grating in Littrow regime when the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of diffraction (e.g., for the central wavelength). In this exemplary configuration, the shape of the beam may not change after the grating, and thus provide an effective regime.  FIGS. 10A-10C  illustrate exemplary embodiments of the substrate that can provide a Littrow regime for the grating. 
         [0067]    For example,  FIG. 10A  shows an exemplary embodiment of a diffracting grating substrate  1000  which can include a cylindrical body  1005  with one side  1020  polished at the Littrow&#39;s angle  1015 .  FIG. 10B  shows another exemplary embodiment of the diffracting grating substrate  1025  which includes a prismatic body  1030  with one side  1045  polished at the Littrow&#39;s angle  1040 .  FIG. 10C  shows still another exemplary embodiment of the diffracting grating substrate  1050  which can include a cylindrical body  1055  with one side  1057  polished at the complimentary to Littrow&#39;s angle  1058  and a mirror  1087  deposited. Another flat surface  1065  may be polished parallel to the cylinder axis where the grating is to be deposited.  FIG. 10D  shows yet another exemplary embodiment of the diffracting grating substrate  1075  which can include a prismatic body  1080  with one side  1087  polished at the complimentary to Littrow&#39;s angle  1085  and a mirror  1087  deposited. The grating is intended to be deposited on the side  1095 . It should be understood that the illustrated sizes are merely exemplary, and other sizes are possible and are within the scope of the present invention. 
         [0068]    In certain exemplary applications, the system/probe can be small enough to be introduced through a small opening, and big enough to be able to image at big distances in a cavity. These conflicting preferences can be met by using an inflating balloon with added optical functionality. Two such exemplary configurations are shown in  FIGS. 11A and 11B . 
         [0069]    In particular,  FIG. 11A  shows another exemplary embodiment of the SEE system/probe  1100  which can include a single mode optical fiber  1110 . A holographic optical element (“HOE”)  1125  written on the surface of the inflating balloon  1120  can incorporate the optical functionality of the focusing and dispersing elements. The dispersed light may be focused into the imaging line  1130 . When the exemplary system/probe  1100  is spun, the image of the area  1135  may be obtained. This exemplary configuration may be further defined by the material availability for infrared applications and the possible difficulties associated with the holographic process. 
         [0070]      FIG. 11B  shows still another exemplary embodiment of the SEE system/probe  1150  which can include a single mode optical fiber  1160 . A holographic optical element (“HOE”)  1165  written in a drop of photosensitive polymer  1067  deposited on the tip of the fiber  1060  can incorporate the optical functionality of the expansion, and dispersing elements. Further, the balloon catheter  1170  may be filled with a high refractive index biocompatible liquid, thus forming a near spherical refracting focusing surface  1175 . This exemplary configuration may be further defined by the material availability for infrared applications and the possible difficulties associated with the holographic process. 
         [0071]    One exemplary advantage of the various exemplary embodiments of the present invention may be the relative simple configurations and designs of the exemplary embodiments of the systems/probes. According to one exemplary embodiment, e.g., the system/probe can include an optical fiber with a modified tip. (See  FIGS. 2-7 ). For example, the system/probe can illuminate a line at the object and acquire one line of image at a time. In order to acquire an image with this exemplary system/probe, it may be preferable that the imaging line is scanned in transverse direction across the object. This can be a repetitive or a single scan. In such cases, an image or the surface that the line scans can be acquired and displayed. The information obtained from the back-scattered light can be interpreted in various manners to represent different tissue types, different states of the same tissue, various types of dysphasia, tissue damage etc. as well as motion of body liquids and cells. Certain exemplary arrangements which can be used for placing the probe and scanning the tissue may be as follows. 
       Catheter Exemplary Embodiments 
       [0072]    Where catheters are used in medicine, a very thin wall sealed PTFE tube can be used as a protective transparent sheath for the probe that can be delivered through the lumen of a guide catheter to the area of interest (as shown in  FIG. 12 ). When in place, the fiber inside the thin tube can be scanned by rotating or by pulling in order to obtain an image. A short distal part of the catheter can be of a small diameter. The proximal end can be of a bigger diameter with added additional springs/shafts to protect the fiber and convey the motion. 
         [0073]    For example,  FIG. 12  shows an exemplary embodiment of a catheter of the SEE system/probe  1200  which can include an optical core  1230 . The exemplary system/probe  1200  can be protected by a transparent sheath  1220  that can allow the transmission of the imaging light  1240  into the region of interest. The imaging catheter  1220  can be placed trough a guide catheter  1210 . 
       Needle Exemplary Embodiments 
       [0074]    For needle biopsies that are traditionally performed under CT, MRI, or ultrasound guidance, the fiber optic probe may be inserted into the biopsy needle (as shown in  FIG. 13 ). In this exemplary configuration, the fiber optic probe may be embedded within the needle biopsy device or inserted through the lumen of the needle. The image can be acquired during the insertion of the needle or by rotating of the probe inside the needle and, e.g., only looking at a limited angle 
         [0075]      FIG. 13  shows another exemplary embodiment of a catheter of the SEE system/probe  1300  which can include an optical core  1330 . The exemplary system/probe  1300  can be delivered to the region being imaged through the lumen of a biopsy needle  1320  that may be delivered through an endoscope or guide catheter  1310 . 
       Intraoperative Exemplary Embodiments 
       [0076]    For example, the exemplary system/probe may be incorporated into an electrocautery device, scalpel, or be an independent hand-held device. 
       Exemplary Optical Parameters 
       [0077]    One exemplary parameter for comparing different miniature endoscope technologies may be the number of resolvable points. This exemplary parameter can be the limiting factor that may render a technology more or less useful for the particular application. The total number of resolvable points provided by the exemplary embodiments of the SEE system/probe (n) for the first diffraction order can be defined by: 
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                 ) 
               
               2 
             
           
         
       
     
         [0078]    Exemplary determinations can indicate that for a source with a center wavelength, λ 0 , source bandwidth, Δλ, of 250 nm, a grating input angle, θ i , of 49° and a grating groove density, Λ, of 1800 lines per mm, a 250 μm diameter SEE probe may facilitate imaging with, e.g., 40,000 resolvable points. In comparison, a commercially available 300 μm diameter fiber-optic image bundle (Holl Meditronics, 30-0084-00) contains only 1,600 resolvable points. 
         [0079]      FIG. 14  shows a flow diagram of a method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention for making the exemplary embodiment of the SEE system/probe shown in  FIG. 2 . In particular, the end of SMF-28 optical fiber  210  or any other optical fiber can be stripped (step  1410 ). In step  1420 , the spacer can be polished to a predetermined length. The GRIN lens can be polished to a predetermined length in step  1430 . Further, in step  1440 , the grating  250  can be polished to a predetermined length and angle. 
         [0080]    The results of step  1410  are provided to step  1450 , in which the end of the optical fiber is cleaved. The results of steps  1420  and  1430  are provided to step  1460 , in which the spacer and GRIN lens are glued together. The results of step  1440  are provided to step  1470 , in which the grating  250  is deposited on the grating substrate. The results of steps  1450  and  1460  are provided to step  1475 , in which the spacer-GRIN lens assembly is glued to the optical fiber using an optical epoxy and the spacing is varied to achieve the desired focal properties. The results of steps  1475  and  1470  are provided to step  1485  in which the grating  250  bearing the grating substrate is glued to the GRIN lens. In step  1480 , flexible, optically clear, bio- and device-compatible sheath can be provided for housing the imaging core. The results of steps  1480  and  1485  are forwarded to step  1490 , in which the exemplary system/probe is assembled, e.g., by inserting the core into the sheath and sealing and sterilizing the resultant assembly. 
         [0081]      FIG. 15  shows an illustration of procedural steps of an exemplary embodiment of a process for mounting grating substrates which can be facilitated for an exemplary grating fabrication process. It should be understood that dimensions and materials provided in  FIG. 15  are exemplary, and numerous other dimensions and materials can be utilized in accordance with the exemplary embodiments of the present invention. For example, several glass rods  1500 ,  1510  with different diameters  1500 ,  1510  can be stacked and mounted together inside a particular mount  1520  into a particular location  1525 . The rods can be separated by a thin lead foil  1530  (e.g., 127 μm thick). The rod stack can then be polished at an angle while inside the mount  1520 . After polishing, the polished face can be cleaned, and a grating  1540  may be fabricated, e.g., without disassembling the pieces. When grating fabrication is completed, the pieces can be disassembled. The individual pieces may then be polished from the other side  1550 . The completed grating  1560  can then be assembled into the fiber or lens. The stack of fibers and the lead foil  1530  is shown in  FIG. 15  as a small square  1525  in the middle of the particular mount  1520  (e.g., a holder). In a top projection indicated in  FIG. 15 , the same stack is shown as a parallelogram in the middle. This stack is further enlarged in the top right drawing of  FIG. 15 , labeled “Top view”. The final exemplary product (e.g., a completed piece  1560 ) can be obtained from one of the rods  1500  by shortening and/or polishing the non-grating-carrying end to obtain the desired length. 
         [0082]    The foregoing merely illustrates the principles of the invention. Various modifications and alterations to the described embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein. Indeed, the arrangements, systems and methods according to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention can be used with and/or implement any OCT system, OFDI system, SD-OCT system or other imaging systems, and for example with those described in International Patent Application PCT/US2004/029148, filed Sep. 8, 2004, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/266,779, filed Nov. 2, 2005, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/501,276, filed Jul. 9, 2004, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. It will thus be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be able to devise numerous systems, arrangements and methods which, although not explicitly shown or described herein, embody the principles of the invention and are thus within the spirit and scope of the present invention. In addition, to the extent that the prior art knowledge has not been explicitly incorporated by reference herein above, it is explicitly being incorporated herein in its entirety. All publications referenced herein above are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.