Disposable light source patch for enhanced visualization of subcutaneous structures

A patch structure for use in medical imaging procedures, comprising:

• a first layer comprising optically transparent conformable material consisting of hydrogel, having a bottom surface that is configured to conform to a body surface of a patient to establish intimate laminar contact with the body surface, for optically coupling the first layer to the body surface of the patient at an interface between the bottom surface of the first layer and the body surface;
• a second layer comprising an optically transparent polymer or elastomer, said second layer supporting the first layer;
• a light source comprising a light emitting diode (LED) that emits infrared (IR) or near infrared (nIR) light through the optically transparent polymer or elastomer of the second layer and the transparent conformable hydrogel material of the first layer, to illuminate subcutaneous structures body below the body surface;
• a third layer for supporting the light source;
• and
• a reflective surface having an aperture through which the emitted light passes, the reflective surface disposed between the first layer and the third layer for reflecting light reflected from the body surface back through the first layer to the interface.