Wireless Light-emitting Marker Using Magnetic Field Resonance for Laparoscopic Gastrointestinal Surgery

In laparoscopic gastrointestinal surgery, the location of the tumor is identified mainly with marking methods, such as ink tattooing and intraoperative gastrointestinal endoscopy and marking with a metal clip followed by confirmation with intraoperative x-ray fluoroscopy. Each method has disadvantages, such as complexity, instability of ink sticks, and radiation exposure. Thus, a simple and less-invasive marking method is needed.

We developed a wireless light-emitting marker with a miniature light-emitting diode that uses a magnetic field resonance mechanism. It emits 4 individual colors-red, blue, green, and white. We confirmed the usefulness of this marker system in ex vivo and in vivo animal experiments.

In the ex vivo experiment in porcine intestines, use of the wireless marker was successful, as each color of emitted light was recognized from outside the intestine. In the live animal experiment, it was confirmed that the light emitted by the marker system was visible in the porcine intestinal tract during laparoscopic surgery. The light emitted by the wireless marker in the intestinal tract was confirmed with a laparoscope in a simulated animal surgery.

We have developed an innovative, radiation-free and reliable light-emitting marker system that uses a magnetic field resonance mechanism that emits four colors of light during laparoscopic surgery.