Image-guided cancer surgery using near-infrared fluorescence

Abstract

Near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging has been demonstrated to be feasible during cancer surgery using available imaging systems and contrast agents Clinical applicability has been described in sentinel lymph-node mapping, tumour imaging, visualization of vital structures and imaging of vascularization and perfusion NIR fluorescence image-guided surgery has properties that make it a good candidate for clinical acceptance, as it fulfils a clinical need, is versatile and is fast Targeted contrast agents, necessary for full evaluation of this technique, are in advanced stages of clinical approval As novel contrast agents are developed and camera systems are optimized, the technique should prove its true clinical value Well-designed outcomes studies have yet to be performed in the field