A system and method for controlling an emitter assembly comprising a single electromagnetic radiation source for visualizing a surgical site. The emitter assembly comprises a light valve assembly that is coupled to a control circuit. The emitter assembly is configured to emit visible light, infrared radiation, or a combination thereof in either structured or unstructured formats. The control circuit is configured to control the light valve assembly to control which emitter of the emitter assembly is emitting electromagnetic radiation. The light valve assembly can include light valves for controlling whether an emitter receives electromagnetic radiation. Further, the control circuit can control the wavelength of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the source in accordance with which emitter is receiving electromagnetic radiation.
