Abstract: An endoscope includes a sheath; an ultrasound transducer disposed in the sheath to transmit an ultrasound frequency and to receive an image signal comprising an ultrasound signal and photoacoustic signal; and a plurality of optical fibers interposed between the sheath and ultrasound probe to transmit light; wherein the sheath comprises: a first end configured to accept the ultrasound transducer and plurality of optical fibers; and a second end to pass the ultrasound frequency and light out of the sheath. A process to make the endoscope comprises shaping a material to form a sheath; inserting an ultrasound transducer into the sheath; disposing a plurality of optical fibers into the sheath; and coupling an end of the sheath to the ultrasound transducer. A system for imaging comprises an endoscope; a near-infrared light source coupled endoscope; and an acquisition device to acquire an image signal from the endoscope.

Abstract: An endoscope includes a sheath; an ultrasound transducer disposed in the sheath to transmit an ultrasound frequency and to receive an image signal comprising an ultrasound signal and photoacoustic signal; and a plurality of optical fibers interposed between the sheath and ultrasound probe to transmit light; wherein the sheath comprises: a first end configured to accept the ultrasound transducer and plurality of optical fibers; and a second end to pass the ultrasound frequency and light out of the sheath. A process to make the endoscope comprises shaping a material to form a sheath; inserting an ultrasound transducer into the sheath; disposing a plurality of optical fibers into the sheath; and coupling an end of the sheath to the ultrasound transducer. A system for imaging comprises an endoscope; a near-infrared light source coupled endoscope; and an acquisition device to acquire an image signal from the endoscope.