Intraoperative Molecular Imaging of Lung Cancer: A Review

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Surgical Innovation
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Intraoperative molecular imaging offers significant potential for enhancing lung cancer surgical procedures.
• Key applications include precise tumor localization, accurate margin assessment, and identification of additional nodules.
• The technology may also aid in lymph node staging during surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the promise of intraoperative molecular imaging in lung cancer surgery.
• To identify critical advancements needed for clinical implementation.
• To discuss the current status of relevant imaging agents.

Main Methods:

• Review of current advancements in molecular imaging agents and fluorescence surgical cameras.
• Discussion of the potential applications in lung cancer resection.
• Overview of the regulatory landscape for new imaging agents.

Main Results:

• Intraoperative molecular imaging demonstrates potential for improving tumor localization and margin assessment.
• Identification of additional pulmonary nodules and lymph node assessment are potential benefits.
• Targeted, near-infrared agents, such as OTL38, are progressing through clinical trials.

Conclusions:

• Advancements in imaging agents and fluorescence surgical cameras are essential for the widespread adoption of intraoperative molecular imaging in lung cancer surgery.
• While no agents are FDA-approved, promising agents are in late-stage clinical trials.
• This technology holds significant promise for improving surgical outcomes in lung cancer patients.