A Pervasive Approach for Determining the Optimal Tissue Windows for Near‐Infrared Fluorescence Imaging

Abstract The near‐infrared (NIR) tissue window is widely recognized for its exceptional potential in fluorescence bioimaging. Through theoretical simulations utilizing the Monte Carlo (MC) method, coupled with fluorescence imaging through phantoms, the Peak Signal‐to‐Noise Ratio (PSNR) for imaging through scattering media within the spectral range of 900–2500 nm is investigated. The findings confirm that under specific conditions, the light absorption of water can enhance the quality of fluorescence imaging, although the imaging depth must be judiciously trade‐off. Additionally, the brightness of fluorescent probes plays a significant role in influencing the imaging PSNR, particularly in tissues that exhibit high levels of photon scattering and light absorption. Indiscriminately increasing the brightness may lead to a reduction in image PSNR. The light absorption of water at wavelengths 1450 and 2200 nm can optimize the clarity of fluorescence images at shallower depths. Meanwhile, the tissue window 1700 nm can facilitate greater imaging depths while maintaining an acceptable PSNR.