In the field of imaging, optical fiber is used, for example, in endoscopy. In general terms, endoscopy includes gastroscopy and colonoscopy. Using these fiber-optic-based tools, the medical practitioner can visualize internal structures, thereby making a diagnosis and potentially performing surgical treatment.
Optical fiber can also be combined with catheters to provide diagnostic imaging of an artery during a bypass operation.
In other cases, many diseases (such as cancers) can be detected by monitoring changes in molecular composition through spectroscopic analyses using optical fiber.
Optical fiber is also a preferred component for lasers used during surgery to treat a tumor, or to destroy a kidney stone.
In short, optical fiber offers the medical field many advantages, including being insensitive to electromagnetic interference, flexible, very thin and durable, making it a valuable ally for healthcare professionals.