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Tumor-Embedded Nerve Surgery Using Dual-Channel Intraoperative Imaging Probes
Eun Bi Jun1,2,3, Kyungsu Kim1,2,3, Jun Hee Lee1,2,3
1Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Korea University Guro Hospital, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul 08308, Republic of Korea.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|July 22, 2025
Summary
A new nerve-specific near-infrared (NIR) fluorophore, NTFP700, allows for precise nerve imaging during cancer surgery. This method, combined with a tumor agent, helps surgeons differentiate nerves and tumors, reducing injury risk.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Oncology
- Medical Imaging
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Nerve identification during cancer surgery is challenging due to anatomical shifts, increasing injury risk.
- Nerve damage can cause severe complications like chronic pain and motor dysfunction.
- Existing intravenous contrast agents carry systemic side effect risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a nerve-specific near-infrared (NIR) fluorophore, NTFP700, for local application.
- To assess NTFP700's ability to selectively image nerves.
- To explore a dual-channel NIR imaging approach for differentiating nerves and tumors.
Main Methods:
- Development of NTFP700, a nerve-specific NIR fluorophore for 700 nm imaging.
- Application of NTFP700 using a dyed-gauze method for enhanced visualization.
- Dual-channel NIR imaging combining NTFP700 with a tumor-targeted agent (cRGD-ZW800-PEG, 800 nm).
Main Results:
- NTFP700 effectively highlighted nerve structures with strong fluorescence.
- The dyed-gauze method improved visualization of anatomically altered nerves.
- Dual-channel imaging successfully distinguished nerves from tumors using distinct fluorescent signals.
Conclusions:
- NTFP700 shows potential as a nerve-targeting fluorophore for local application in surgery.
- Combining NTFP700 with a tumor agent and dyed-gauze method offers a promising strategy for nerve-tumor differentiation.
- This approach may reduce nerve-related complications in oncological procedures.
