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Minimally invasive lymphatic mapping using fluorescently labeled vitamin B12
James M McGreevy1, Michelle J Cannon, Charles B Grissom
1Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84132, USA. james.mcgreevey@hsc.utah.edu
The Journal of Surgical Research
|July 5, 2003
Summary
A new Cy5-cobalamin bioconjugate effectively maps inguinal lymph nodes in pigs. This fluorescent agent, visible through tissue, aids minimally invasive surgical dissection and cancer spread visualization.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Surgical Innovation
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Investigated a novel Cy5-cobalamin bioconjugate for inguinal lymph node mapping and dissection.
- The agent is blue under visible light and fluoresces red with laser stimulation, visible through tissue.
- Compatible with existing minimally invasive surgical telescopes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of Cy5-cobalamin bioconjugate in lymphatic mapping and dissection.
- To assess its effectiveness in identifying lymphatic pathways and sentinel nodes.
- To explore its potential for visualizing cancer metastasis in regional lymph nodes.
Main Methods:
- Tested the bioconjugate in live pigs (30 kg).
- Utilized minimally invasive surgical ports for dissection.
- Injected the agent and stimulated fluorescence with a HeNe laser, captured by a camera.
Main Results:
- Lymphatic trunks and sentinel nodes visualized within minutes under white light.
- Bright red fluorescence observed under laser stimulation.
- Demonstrated clear visualization of lymphatic structures.
Conclusions:
- Preliminary findings support the agent's usefulness in lymphatic mapping.
- Novel technology shows potential for visualizing cancer spread to lymph nodes.
- Technique can map lymphatic drainage and identify malignant cells with current minimally invasive technology.