A customized scope head for OCT-guided laser stimulation of the vagus nerve

In our laboratory, we are currently developing laser nerve stimulation using 1500 nm laser radiation, specifically as a potential alternative to electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve. The newly emerging stimulation method may have significant advantages over conventional electrical nerve stimulation for scientific studies and clinical applications: (1) non-contact delivery of external stimulus signals at mm scaled distance in air, (2) enhanced spatial selectivity, and (3) electrical artifact-free measurements. However, one of the issues limiting these advantages is that the tissue temperature is trapped in a narrow window (41 degrees C - 48 degrees C) for a successful and safe laser nerve stimulation. Another limitation is that only instantaneous surface temperature measurement is possible. This report presents to design a scope head that delivers a 1290 nm OCT beam for immediate backscatter coefficient feedback, a 1500 nm laser beam for laser nerve stimulation, and provides real-time imaging. The preliminary test of the scope head is described as fictitious.