Groundbreaking imaging method from Dresden reveals cancer cells clearly

A groundbreaking new imaging technology, developed by researchers at the National Center for Tumor Diseases Dresden (NCT/UCC) and UCLA, is set to revolutionise cancer surgery in the coming years. This technology, which uses short-wave infrared light and special fluorescent dyes, has been the subject of clinical studies at prestigious institutions such as Johns Hopkins University, Mayo Clinic, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Stanford University.

The NCT/UCC, a joint institution focused on the development of latest technologies to improve cancer therapy, is the primary institution where the research is conducted. The technology offers potential for preserving as much healthy tissue as possible during surgery, a significant improvement over previous medical imaging techniques.

One of the key advantages of this new technology is its ability to detect malignant cancer cells in deeper tissue layers, a challenge for previous imaging methods. This allows surgeons to recognise tumours more accurately during surgery, enabling them to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible.

The research has received recognition in the form of the Helmholtz High Impact Award 2024, which was announced on Youtube. The award ceremony took place in 2024, and was given for the new imaging technology developed by Oliver Bruns (NCT/UCC Dresden) and Ellen Sletten (UCLA).

Clinical studies are currently running in collaboration with Stanford University to document the benefit of the imaging systems for patients. Esther Troost, Dean of the Medical Faculty of TU Dresden, believes that the research in imaging will revolutionise surgery in the coming years.

The National Center for Tumor Diseases Dresden (NCT/UCC), where the researchers work, offers ideal conditions for implementing the technology quickly. The technology is expected to have a profound impact on the field of cancer surgery, improving outcomes for patients and preserving quality of life.