Performance of a contact textile-based light diffuser for photodynamic therapy
Tania Khan1, Merthan Unternährer2, Julia Buchholz3
1Research Division of Gynecology, Department of OB/GYN, University Hospital, Zürich CH-8091, Switzerland.
Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy
|July 23, 2014
Summary
A novel luminous textile diffuser shows feasibility for photodynamic therapy (PDT) applications. While retaining heat, this medical textile offers potential advantages for light-based treatments.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
- Optical Engineering
Background:
- Medical textiles present opportunities for enhanced comfort, reliability, and safety in light-based medical applications.
- This study explores a luminous textile diffuser designed for photodynamic therapy (PDT).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the feasibility and efficacy of a textile-based optical diffuser for photodynamic therapy.
- To evaluate the performance of textile diffusers compared to traditional front lens diffusers.
Main Methods:
- Textile diffusers were created using an embroidery process with plastic optical fibers and a reflective backing.
- In vitro clonogenic and trypan blue exclusion assays were conducted using MCF-7 and NuTu19 cells.
- In vivo photodynamic therapy was applied to equine sarcoids and other research animals, with heating effects and computer simulations also analyzed.
Main Results:
- Textile diffusers showed a trend towards lower cell survival rates at low fluency compared to front lens diffusers.
- The textile diffuser exhibited increased heat retention over time (>1 minute).
- All animal subjects tolerated the treatment well, with simulations indicating a potential focusing effect on curved surfaces.
Conclusions:
- The study demonstrates the initial feasibility of using textile-based optical diffusers in medical applications.
- Textile diffusers offer potential practical advantages for photodynamic therapy and other light-based treatments.
