Translation of Intraoperative Molecular Imaging for Clinical Use

Area of Science:

• Surgical Oncology
• Medical Imaging
• Molecular Probes

Background:

• Intraoperative molecular imaging (IMI) is a rapidly advancing field.
• It utilizes fluorescent, radioactive, or dual-labeled tracers for real-time tissue visualization during surgery.
• Several agents have gained FDA approval, supported by clinical trials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the translation of IMI technology into clinical practice.
• To highlight advancements in IMI tracers and imaging devices.
• To discuss future directions for IMI-guided surgery.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical trials and FDA-approved IMI agents.
• Discussion of different tracer types (fluorescent, radioactive, dual-labeled, activatable).
• Examination of imaging device advancements enabling IMI in diverse surgical platforms.

Main Results:

• IMI tracers offer distinct advantages: fluorescent for spatial detail, radioactive for deep tissue, and dual-labeled for both.
• Novel activatable tracers targeting the tumor microenvironment are under development.
• IMI is increasingly used in oncologic and nononcologic surgeries, improving outcomes despite limitations like autofluorescence.

Conclusions:

• IMI is a valuable tool enhancing surgical precision and outcomes.
• Continued development of tracers and imaging technology will expand IMI applications.
• IMI-guided surgery represents a significant advancement in patient care.