Dual-slope imaging of cerebral hemodynamics with frequency-domain near-infrared spectroscopy
Giles Blaney, Cristianne Fernandez, Angelo Sassaroli, Sergio Fantini
Abstract
SignificanceThis work targets the contamination of optical signals by superficial hemodynamics, which is one of the chief hurdles in non-invasive optical measurements of the human brain.AimTo identify optimal source–detector distances for dual-slope (DS) measurements in frequency-domain (FD) near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and demonstrate preferential sensitivity of DS imaging to deeper tissue (brain) versus superficial tissue (scalp).ApproachTheoretical studies (in-silico) based on diffusion theory in two-layered and in homogeneous scattering media. In-vivo demonstrations of DS imaging of the human brain during visual stimulation and during systemic blood pressure oscillations.ResultsThe mean distance (between the two source–detector distances needed for DS) is the key factor for depth sensitivity. In-vivo imaging of the human occipital lobe with FD NIRS and a mean distance of 31 mm indicated: (1) greater hemodynamic response to visual stimulation from FD phase versus intensity, and from DS versus single-distance (SD); (2) hemodynamics from FD phase and DS mainly driven by blood flow, and hemodynamics from SD intensity mainly driven by blood volume.ConclusionsDS imaging with FD NIRS may suppress confounding contributions from superficial hemodynamics without relying on data at short source–detector distances. This capability can have significant implications for non-invasive optical measurements of the human brain.