Near-Infrared II Imaging and Surgical Anatomical Structure Transparentization: An Emerging Framework for Precision...

Precision surgery in soft tissues is currently hindered by the lack of real-time, depth-resolved visualization. Conventional navigation relies on preoperative images that fail to account for intraoperative deformation, while existing intraoperative tools often lack intuitive spatial correspondence. Here, we propose Surgical Anatomical Structure Transparentization (SAST), an emerging framework anchored by second near-infrared fluorescence imaging. Unlike augmented reality, which merely displays static preoperative models, SAST represents a sensing paradigm that utilizes direct photon scattering suppression to visualize deep anatomy in situ. We delineate the critical technological trajectory-from monocular 2-dimensional fluorescence to 3-dimensional volumetric perception via stereoscopic vision and computational imaging-required to bridge the dimensional gap. By transforming navigation from "referencing a map" to "seeing through tissue", SAST promises to redefine surgical perception through continuous, real-time anatomical transparency.