Fluorescence time-resolved imaging system embedded in an ultrasound prostate probe

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Optics
• Medical Imaging
• Prostate Cancer Diagnostics

Background:

• Prostate ultrasound has limited specificity, often necessitating systematic biopsies.
• Early prostate cancer detection is crucial for effective treatment.
• Novel imaging techniques are needed to improve biopsy guidance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a time-resolved optical imaging system integrated with transrectal ultrasound for prostate cancer biopsy guidance.
• To assess the accuracy and repeatability of a novel fluorescence reconstruction method for localizing tumors.

Main Methods:

• A time-resolved optical system using a pulsed laser and time-resolved detection was embedded in a transrectal ultrasound probe.
• Optical measurements were performed on a liquid prostate phantom with a fluorescent inclusion (ICG, 10 µM).
• A novel, fast fluorescence reconstruction algorithm was developed and applied to locate the inclusion.

Main Results:

• The system achieved high localization accuracy (0.15 cm) in three dimensions for the fluorescent inclusion.
• Repeatability was confirmed through ten sequential measurements, showing consistent accuracy.
• The influence of input parameters like optical properties and fluorescence lifetime was analyzed.

Conclusions:

• The developed optical imaging system demonstrates feasibility for guiding prostate biopsies with high accuracy.
• This technology has the potential to improve early prostate cancer detection by enabling targeted biopsies.
• Fluorescent diffuse optical imaging offers a promising adjunct to ultrasound for enhanced specificity in prostate diagnostics.