The research team’s system includes an endoscope for brain insertion. This illustration depicts the scope’s forward-viewing monolithic lens assembly, mounted at the distal tip of a cleaved single mode fiber. [Illustration courtesy of the Wyss Center]
According to the Wyss Center, the work presents a novel, forward-viewing, common-path OCT system operating at 1310 nm. It offers real-time, high-resolution imaging capabilities crucial for neurosurgical applications. The system can visualize neuroanatomy and blood flow with detail, enhancing the precision of surgeries like deep brain stimulation (DBS) implantation, brain biopsies and tumor resections, according to Wyss.
This technology could address current neurosurgical limitations in four ways, the Wyss Center said. First, its minimally invasive design features a compact, forward-viewing endoscope for compatibility with existing neurosurgical tools. This minimizes invasiveness while enhancing surgical accuracy.
Second, real-time tissue and blood vessel visualization enables surgeons to identify and avoid blood vessels. This significantly reduces the risk of hemorrhage during surgery.
Third, its ability to provide high-resolution, 3D imaging in real-time helps maintain the planned trajectory during procedures. This addresses challenges like brain shift and anatomical changes that may occur during surgery.
Finally, the common-path design simplifies device setup and maintenance and eliminates the need for complex polarization setups.
Wyss Center said researchers tested the system in vivo in a rabbit cohort. It demonstrated the potential to integrate into current neurosurgical workflows and improve the accuracy of complex procedures. Researchers said in a news release that the latest milestone represents a “significant step toward more precise, minimally invasive neurosurgeries.”
The team at Wyss Center spin-off Clee Medical is developing the technology and exploring its potential applications across various surgical disciplines.
You can read the full paper in Biomedical Optics Express.
