NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Developing laser technology for cancer treatment in low-resource areas

Official title: Topic Number 431Cancer Treatment Technologies for Low-Resource Settings

Funded at Spatial Surgical LLC · NIH-11191356 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new laser system that helps surgeons spot and remove hidden cancer cells during surgery, making it especially useful for patients with colorectal cancer and others, even in places with fewer resources.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSpatial Surgical LLC
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Shrewsbury, United States)
Project startSeptember 12, 2024
Project endSeptember 11, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$1,987,032
NIH project number75N91024C00098-0-9999-1
Project IDNIH-11191356 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer or other cancers that can benefit from advanced surgical techniques.

Less likely to help

Patients with early-stage cancer that can be effectively treated with less invasive methods may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a laser ablation system that uses fluorescent dyes to help surgeons identify cancerous cells that are often overlooked during surgery. The system includes custom handpieces equipped with cameras that enhance visualization, making it easier to target and remove tumors effectively. By developing a portable laser system that can be used in low-resource settings, the project aims to improve surgical outcomes for patients with colorectal and other cancers. The technology will be tested in clinical settings to ensure its effectiveness and usability.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve cancer treatment outcomes in low-resource settings by providing advanced surgical tools that enhance tumor detection and removal.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using fluorescent-guided surgery for cancer treatment, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

  • Spatial Surgical LLC
    Shrewsbury, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Monty, Nathan — Spatial Surgical LLC
  • Study coordinator: Monty, Nathan

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.