Fast approximate statistical nonlinear algorithms for diffusion optical tomography of objects with a complicated internal structure

Fast approximate statistical nonlinear algorithms (capable of real-time operation) for solving direct and inverse problems in the diffusion optical tomography are described. These algorithms were tested by reconstructing a rather complicated internal structure (containing up to three strongly absorbing inclusions no smaller than 5 mm in size) of strongly scattering and weakly absorbing large (up to 140 mm) model objects (with scattering and absorption coefficients equal to 1.4 and 0.005 – 0.015 mm^-1, respectively). Experiments were performed using cw radiation of low-power diode lasers (with input power below 20 mW) in the near IR range (between 770 and 820 nm).