A handheld device to help surgeons identify and preserve parathyroid glands during thyroid surgery

hANDY-i(TM): A non-invasive, dual-sensor handheld imager for intraoperative preservation of parathyroid glands

NIH-funded research Optosurgical, LLC · NIH-10706615

This study is testing a new handheld device called hANDY-iTM that helps surgeons find and protect important glands during thyroid surgery, making the procedure safer and reducing the chances of complications for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOptosurgical, LLC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Wilmington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10706615 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a non-invasive, dual-sensor handheld imager called hANDY-iTM, designed to assist surgeons in identifying and preserving parathyroid glands during thyroid surgeries. The device aims to provide real-time imaging that distinguishes viable parathyroid tissue from surrounding structures, reducing the risk of accidental removal and subsequent complications like hypoparathyroidism and hypocalcemia. By improving the accuracy of gland identification, the device could enhance surgical outcomes and patient safety. The approach combines advanced imaging technology with practical surgical application to address a significant clinical challenge.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing thyroid surgery who are at risk of parathyroid gland damage.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing thyroid surgery or those without any risk factors for parathyroid gland complications may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of post-surgical complications related to parathyroid gland damage, improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been advancements in imaging technologies for surgical applications, this specific approach using a handheld device for parathyroid gland preservation is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Wilmington, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.