Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 17, 2026
06:37
Multispectral Real-time Fluorescence Imaging for Intraoperative Detection of the Sentinel Lymph Node in Gynecologic Oncology
Published on: October 20, 2010
23.3K
Fluorescence-Guided Surgery for Gliomas: Past, Present, and Future
Benjamin Rodriguez1,2, Cole S Brown1, Jhair Alejandro Colan3
1Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.
Cancers
|June 13, 2025
Summary
Fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS) significantly improves glioblastoma resection rates, leading to better patient outcomes. This technique enhances tumor visualization, aiding neurosurgeons in maximizing tumor removal and reducing recurrence.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Oncology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive brain tumor with poor prognosis.
- High recurrence rates are linked to residual tumor cells at resection margins.
- Maximal safe resection is crucial for improving patient survival.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical development, current applications, and future of fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS) in GBM.
- To analyze the impact of FGS on extent of resection (EOR) and patient outcomes.
- To explore emerging technologies and therapeutic adjuncts in FGS for GBM.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of fluorophores (fluorescein, ICG, 5-ALA), visualization technologies, and therapeutic adjuncts.
- Analysis of clinical adoption patterns and outcomes associated with FGS.
- Examination of adjunct technologies like 3D exoscopes and spectroscopy probes.
Main Results:
- 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) FGS demonstrated higher gross total resection rates (65%) compared to white-light surgery (36%).
- Global adoption of 5-ALA FGS exceeds 75% among neurosurgeons.
- Adjunct technologies and preliminary studies on photodynamic/sonodynamic therapies show promise.
Conclusions:
- FGS is a key innovation that significantly improves EOR in GBM surgery.
- Ongoing advancements in fluorophores, imaging, and therapies will further enhance FGS.
- Improved visualization and resection via FGS translate to better patient outcomes.
