Revolutionary Imaging Method Wins Helmholtz Award, Set to Transform Surgery
A groundbreaking imaging method, developed by researchers Ellen Sletten and Oliver Bruns, is set to transform surgical procedures in the coming years. The technique, which combines short-wave infrared light and special fluorescent dyes, has been honoured with the Helmholtz High Impact Award 2024. It is currently being introduced into practice at the National Center for Tumor Diseases Dresden (NCT/UCC).
The innovative method uses a unique fluorophore called 'Squaraine', developed by Sletten and Bruns. This agent emits bright near-infrared fluorescence, penetrates biological tissues deeply, and exhibits high photostability, making it ideal for advanced imaging applications. The imaging procedure can differentiate between various tissue types based on water content, making structures like tumors or blood vessels clearly visible, even in deeper layers.
Clinical studies, in collaboration with Stanford University, are ongoing to document the benefits of this imaging system in patients. The aim is to make malignant cancer cells more visible, aiding surgeons in precise tumor recognition during operations. The technology is expected to revolutionize surgery, with the potential to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
The new imaging method, developed by Ellen Sletten and Oliver Bruns, has received significant recognition, including the Helmholtz High Impact Award 2024. It is now being introduced into practice at the NCT/UCC, with clinical studies underway to validate its benefits. This innovative technology promises to enhance surgical precision and improve cancer treatment, marking a significant step forward in medical imaging.
