Light-guided localization within tissue using biocompatible surgical suture fiber as an optical waveguide

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Optics
• Surgical Technology
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Traditional optical wires for surgical guidance, often silica glass fibers, present challenges due to stiffness and poor biocompatibility.
• Accurate localization of small breast lesions is crucial in breast-conserving surgery to ensure complete tumor removal and minimize tissue damage.

Discussion:

• This study explores the use of a biocompatible surgical suture as an optical waveguide for light delivery within tissue.
• A 400 μm diameter, centimeter-long suture effectively transported visible laser light, demonstrating glow ball-like illumination at its tip.
• Effective optical power coupling was achieved using a double-cladding fiber coupler, enabling light delivery to the target site.

Key Insights:

• Surgical sutures can function as effective biopolymer waveguides for optical light localization in tissue.
• The developed method offers a flexible and potentially more comfortable alternative to rigid silica-based optical fibers.
• Demonstrated feasibility of using common surgical materials for advanced optical guidance applications.

Outlook:

• Further research can optimize suture material and waveguide design for enhanced light delivery and biocompatibility.
• Clinical translation could lead to improved minimally invasive surgical guidance tools.
• This approach may extend to other medical applications requiring targeted light delivery within biological tissues.