Near infrared fluorescence imaging in surgery: seeing more?

All operations involve a risk of accidental damage by the surgeon. The most common cause for this damage is incorrect distinction of the various tissues. This is often difficult because the different tissues are very similar and the anatomy in the living person does not always follow the anatomy book. This thesis explores the use of fluorescent imaging during surgery. This technique allows the surgeon to see certain parts of the anatomy light up as the camera settings of a viewing operation are adjusted, making it possible to better distinguish the different tissues.
This dissertation investigates this technique for three common operations, namely
1. Gallbladder surgery
2. Colon surgery
3. Thyroid surgery
This thesis investigates the practical applicability, added value and points for improvement of near infrared fluorescence imaging.