A spectral camera acquires x,y images at a series of wavelengths (λ). Then each x,y pixel becomes a reflectance spectrum, R(λ), which can be analyzed to specify tissue properties such as blood content and oxygen saturations, water content, light scattering, melanin content, etc.

We have two projects:

1. The optics of appearance
2. Evaluating laser treatment of port wine stains in children.
   
   

The optics of appearance

We are acquiring spectral images of faces to specify the optical parameters (blood, hydration, melanin, scattering) that affect appearance.

Evaluating laser treatment of port wine stains in children

Portwine stains (PWS) are treated by a laser to thermally cause thrombus formation (clots), which yields tissue ischemia (lack of oxygen) and elicits a wound healing response that removes the PWS. But often treatment is incomplete. We are using a spectral camera to image the ischemia after laser treatment of PWS to find areas where the clot has loosened (reperfusion) which re-established blood flow and oxygenation such that treatment fails. The goal is to allow the doctor to find regions that need additional touch-up treatment before the patient leaves the clinic.