Stable fiber-based polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography using polarization maintaining common-path interferometer

Significance: Our work advances the development of fiber-based polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography (PS-OCT) by stabilizing the output polarization state of the light beam when the system is under environmental disturbance. While the fiber-based PS-OCT has been demonstrated previously, it remains a challenge for the traditional fiber-based PS-OCT to obtain a stable measurement when the optic fibers are disturbed by the environment. This important issue is addressed, paving the path for clinical translation of PS-OCT, which can provide a unique perspective of the biological samples. Aim: Polarization maintaining common-path (CP) interferometer is fabricated with the goal of providing a stable fiber-based ...