Switchable LED-based laparoscopic multispectral system for rapid high-resolution perfusion imaging

Multispectral imaging (MSI) is an approach for real-time, quantitative, and non-invasive tissue perfusion measurements. Current laparoscopic systems based on mosaic sensors or filter wheels lack high spatial resolution or acceptable frame rates.

To develop a laparoscopic system for MSI-based color video and tissue perfusion imaging during gastrointestinal surgery without compromising spatial or temporal resolution.

The system was built with 14 switchable light-emitting diodes in the visible and near-infrared spectral range, a 4K image sensor, and a 10 mm laparoscope. Illumination patterns were created for tissue oxygenation and hemoglobin content monitoring. The system was calibrated to a clinically approved laparoscopic hyperspectral system using linear regression models and evaluated in an occlusion study with 36 volunteers.

The root mean squared errors between the MSI and reference system were 0.073 for hemoglobin content, 0.039 for oxygenation in deeper tissue layers, and 0.093 for superficial oxygenation. The spatial resolution at a working distance of 45 mm was $$. The effective frame rate was 20 fps.

High-resolution perfusion monitoring was successfully achieved. Hardware optimizations will increase the frame rate. Parameter optimizations through alternative illumination patterns, regression, or assumed tissue models are planned. Intraoperative measurements must confirm the suitability during surgery.