Radiofrequency identification tags for preoperative tumor localization: proof of concept

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Surgical Technology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Accurate tumor localization is critical for effective surgical resection.
• Current localization methods can be invasive or lack precision.
• Novel technologies are needed to improve preoperative and intraoperative guidance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of using radiofrequency identification (RFID) tags for tumor localization.
• To develop and validate a new handheld RFID detector for precise tag identification.
• To assess the integration of RFID technology with existing imaging modalities.

Main Methods:

• Development of a unique handheld RFID detector (TagFinder) with interchangeable probes and dual signaling.
• Validation of RFID tag localization and identification in breast phantoms and tissue specimens.
• Testing tag visualization across sonography, radiography, and MRI.
• Experimental localization and resection of RFID-tagged tissue in chicken breast models.

Main Results:

• RFID tags (8- and 12-mm lengths) were accurately localized and identified up to 6 cm deep.
• Tissue specimens with and without RFID tags were reliably differentiated.
• Tags were visualized using sonography, mammography, and MRI (with MRI artifacts noted).
• Successful localization and resection of RFID-tagged tissue were achieved.

Conclusions:

• The combination of RFID tags and the developed handheld detector shows significant promise for image-guided tumor localization.
• This technology offers a potential solution for enhancing surgical precision and improving patient outcomes.
• Further research is warranted to translate this technology into clinical practice.