Depth localization of an inclusion within turbid slab media using time-resolved transillumination contrast functions: numerical study

In the framework of the depth detection of tumor using the diffusion equation, a finite element method is proposed in order to solve the time-dependent light propagation in highly scattering media. A tumor-like object is positioned in the media. The finite element method tacks into account Robin type air-tissue boundary conditions. This Study is devoted to the depth localization of a timor enclosed into a breast tissue-like slab. Cartesian coordinates are used in order to solve the time-dependent diffusion approximation. A short laser pulse of Iris is considered. The transillumination technique is able to laterally detect the object; when the Source and detector are moved together on the same axis. In order to perform the depth localization of the inclusion, we were interested in a non-coaxial transillumination technique Conjugated to interesting contrast functions based on the mean time of flight of photons. These functions allow to localize axially the inclusion using the high scattering processes. Thus, we performed first results of a depth indicator of a tumor. We now perform a parametric study. The optical properties of the slab are varying. Furthermore, different sizes of the objects are tested. Thus, the influence and the variation of these parameters on the depth indicator are shown. Our Study demonstrates the possibility to deeply localize a tumor enclosed in a breast tissue using the high scattering processes induced by a tumor. To enhance the scattering processes, an interesting way is then to use recent nanoparticles allowing to modify the scattering coefficient.