Developing a new imaging tool to identify nerves during surgery

Real-time Multimodal Diffuse Reflectance and Polarization Imaging Based Nerve Identification in Surgical Field of View

NIH-funded research Yaya Scientific, LLC · NIH-10931684

This study is testing a new device that helps surgeons see nerves clearly during surgery without touching them, which could help prevent pain and complications for patients who have surgeries near these important structures.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYaya Scientific, LLC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Franklin, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10931684 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a non-contact, label-free imaging device that can identify nerves in real-time during surgical procedures. By using advanced imaging techniques, the device aims to prevent nerve damage that can lead to chronic pain and other complications after surgery. The approach is designed to enhance the surgeon's ability to visualize critical nerve structures, thereby improving surgical outcomes and reducing the risk of iatrogenic nerve injuries. Patients undergoing surgeries that involve nerve proximity may benefit from this innovative technology.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients scheduled for surgeries where nerve preservation is critical, such as prostatectomies or mastectomies.

Not a fit: Patients undergoing surgeries that do not involve nerve structures or those with conditions unrelated to nerve damage may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of chronic pain and improve recovery outcomes for surgical patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using imaging technologies for nerve identification, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Franklin, 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 2026-06-09 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.