Real-time quadrature projection complex conjugate resolved Fourier domain optical coherence tomography

We present a novel algorithm for full-range imaging by suppression of the complex conjugate artifact in phase-shifting Fourier domain optical coherence tomography. This technique utilizes the projection of multiple phase-shifted interferograms onto an orthogonal basis set to reconstruct the complex interferogram. Full-range imaging with > 30 dB suppression of the symmetric artifact is demonstrated using a 3 X 3 fiber coupler swept source OCT system, providing a depth range of 6.6 mm, with -8 dB roll-off in sensitivity at the depth boundaries relative to DC. Real-time display of full-range images of the anterior segment of the human eye acquired in vivo at a line rate of 6.67 kHz are presented. (c) 2006 Optical Society of America.