Abstract: A method for non-destructively estimating an average size of scattering particles in a sample, including: transmitting, using a coherent light source, polarized light to the sample; obtaining, using a detector, polarized light reflected from the sample, the polarized light comprising a parallel polarized component and a perpendicular polarized component; determining, using a processor, speckle decorrelation rates for the parallel polarized component and the perpendicular polarized component; and estimating, using the processor, the average size of scattering particles in the sample based on the speckle decorrelation rates for the parallel polarized component and the perpendicular polarized component.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of apparatus and method for determining at least one material property of an anatomical structure can be provided. According to one exemplary embodiment, it is possible to apply at least one first coherent radiation to at least one portion of the anatomical structure, and receive at least one second coherent radiation from such portion(s). The first and second coherent radiations can be associated with one another. In addition, it is possible to determine the material property based on the second coherent radiation(s). Such determination can be performed without (i) any portion of an apparatus performing the procedure causing an induction of at least one mechanical deformation on or in the anatomical structure, and/or (ii) any mechanical deformation on or in the anatomical structure.