Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 30, 2025

Tissue-simulating Phantoms for Assessing Potential Near-infrared Fluorescence Imaging Applications in Breast Cancer Surgery
Published on: September 19, 2014
Near-infrared-guided Thoracoscopic Surgery and Future Near-infrared Targets
1Surgical Oncology, Veterinary Specialty Hospital - North County, by Ethos Veterinary Health, 2055 Montiel Road. #104, San Marcos, CA 92069, USA.
Abstract:
Intraoperative near-infrared fluorescence imaging allows for real time, noninvasive visualization of anatomic structures (blood vessels, lymphatic vessels) or diseased states (cancer, inflammation). This technique is easily adapted to thoracoscopy and has allowed for improved detection of lung tumors and other various cancers, thoracic lymphatics, and cardiothoracic vasculature.
Insights
Near-infrared fluorescence imaging provides real-time, noninvasive visualization during surgery. This technique enhances the detection of cancers, thoracic lymphatics, and blood vessels during thoracoscopic procedures.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Surgical Visualization
- Oncology
Background:
- Intraoperative imaging is crucial for surgical guidance.
- Near-infrared fluorescence imaging offers real-time, noninvasive visualization.
- Existing methods may have limitations in detecting subtle structures or diseased tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the utility of intraoperative near-infrared fluorescence imaging.
- To demonstrate its application in thoracoscopic procedures.
- To showcase its effectiveness in visualizing key thoracic structures and pathologies.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing near-infrared fluorescence imaging during thoracoscopic surgery.
- Noninvasive visualization of anatomic structures like blood and lymphatic vessels.
- Detection of diseased states such as cancer and inflammation.
Main Results:
- Successfully visualized blood vessels and lymphatic vessels in real time.
- Improved detection rates for lung tumors and other cancers.
- Enhanced visualization of thoracic lymphatics and cardiothoracic vasculature.
Conclusions:
- Intraoperative near-infrared fluorescence imaging is a valuable tool in thoracoscopic surgery.
- This technique improves the detection of oncologic and vascular structures.
- It offers a noninvasive, real-time approach for enhanced surgical visualization.

