Researchers have invented an improved Near-Infrared Fluorescence (NIF) imaging system specific to Indocyanine Green (ICG) dye employing optoelectronics that provides improved sensitivity and flexibility and allows for greater subject-lens distance, increased depth visualization, real-time output, and ease of use. Tumors located more than 5 cm below the surface of tissue can be imaged from distances greater than 5 cm using the improved NIR fluorescence imaging system of the invention. The design architecture allows for substitution of a camera suitable for both the visible and the ultraviolet (UV) spectral region with concomitant substitution of matching dye and filter set. This improved NIR fluorescence surgical camera is mobile, easy to use, and enables surgeons to visualize deep tissue in cases where vascularization or blood flow is assessed. Human trials in process.
BACKGROUND:
Surgeons require a properly visualized operational field. While lighting in the visible light spectrum has long been the standard for imaging purposes, it only allows for the visualization of surface features. It is unable to identify deeper tissue boundaries or blood vessels, key areas to be approached or avoided. Near-Infrared Fluorescence imaging circumvent these problems, allowing stark contrast imaging, and greater depth of information.
While several competitive technologies exist in NIR imaging, all current offerings suffer from exorbitant cost, inhibitive size, and a requirement for close proximity to the tissue to be imaged. MU’s novel imaging system addresses these problems with an easy to use, low cost, portable camera that enables improved sensitivity, greater depth of imaging, greater distance between camera and patient (>2 feet), and greater depth of information for a variety of surgical applications.
APPLICATIONS:
- Surgical procedure like sutured closures for veins and/or arteries
- Coronary revascularization procedures (Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) and Percutaneous Coronary Interventions)
- SNL Mapping and Dissection for breast, skin, and gastric cancers
- Skin graft vascularization assessment
ADVANTAGES
Low cost
Compact device
Uses FDA approved dye
Real time monitoring during surgical procedures
Enhanced visual displays of regions of interest
Improved sensitivity
Increased flexibility and ease of use
Provision for voice commands
Increased flexibility in distance between patient and camera
Allows for substitution of a camera suitable for either the visible spectral region or the ultraviolet (UV) spectral region