Optical-imaging advance takes aim at brain tumors
As an aid to tumor-resection neurosurgery and its planning, fluorescence imaging has been limited by its tendency to scatter light. Researchers are working on technology that would overcome this shortcoming.
The advanced brain-imaging procedure, described in a preclinical study just published in IEEE Transactions on Medical Imaging, begins with the localization of a tumor in a mouse using a near-infrared fluorescent contrast agent.
From this the researchers draw information on tumor depth with speed and precision, potentially reducing damage to healthy surrounding tissue that can occur during fluorescence-guided surgery.
Next, a second near-infrared fluorescent contrast agent is injected into the brain, enabling quantification of protein aggregation and neuron signaling, according to the study abstract.
A news item posted by Purdue’s research foundation quotes study lead author Brian Bentz, who explains the hope is to help surgeons design and carry out tumor resection in humans with precise information on tumor depth and location.
“Such information is not easily accessible with current technologies,” Bentz says. “Our technology aims to provide more detailed information about tumors for surgeons and neuron activity in the brain, both of which can improve outcomes for patients.”
Dave P. has worked in journalism, marketing and public relations for more than 30 years, frequently concentrating on hospitals, healthcare technology and Catholic communications. He has also specialized in fundraising communications, ghostwriting for CEOs of local, national and global charities, nonprofits and foundations.