Educational Review: Intraoperative Parathyroid Fluorescence Detection Technology in Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery

Accurate parathyroid gland (PG) identification is a critical yet challenging component of cervical endocrine procedures. PGs possess strong near-infrared autofluorescence (NIRAF) compared with other tissues in the neck. This property has been harnessed by image- and probe-based near-infrared fluorescence detection systems, which have gained increasing popularity in clinical use for their ability to accurately aid in PG identification in a rapid, noninvasive, and cost-effective manner. All NIRAF technologies, however, cannot differentiate viable from devascularized PGs without the use of contrast enhancement. Here, we aim to provide an overview of the rapid evolution of these technologies and update the surgery community on the most recent advancements in the field.

A PubMed literature review was performed using the key terms "parathyroid," "near-infrared," and "fluorescence." Recommendations regarding the use of these technologies in clinical practice were developed on the basis of the reviewed literature and in conjunction with expert surgeons' opinions.

The use of near-infrared fluorescence detection can be broadly categorized as (1) using parathyroid NIRAF to identify both healthy and diseased PGs, and (2) using contrast-enhanced (i.e., indocyanine green) near-infrared fluorescence to evaluate PG perfusion and viability. Each of these approaches possess unique advantages and disadvantages, and clinical trials are ongoing to better define their utility.

Near-infrared fluorescence detection offers the opportunity to improve our collective ability to identify and preserve PGs intraoperatively. While additional work is needed to propel this technology further, we hope this review will be valuable to the practicing surgeon.