Improved 3D guidance for kidney-sparing endoscopic UTUC treatment

Who could benefit from this research

What this research studies

This project aims to help surgeons map the complex 3D anatomy of the urinary tract during endoscopic cancer treatment so they can ablate all tumors while preserving kidney tissue. By improving visualization and margin assessment beyond current 2D imaging, the method seeks to reduce the need for nephroureterectomy and its impact on kidney function and quality of life. The study will develop techniques that integrate preoperative imaging with intraoperative guidance to enhance accuracy in real time. If successful, patients could experience safer surgeries with better long-term kidney outcomes and fewer cancer recurrences.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• Vanderbilt University Medical Center
  Nashville, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Kavoussi, Nicholas L — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
• Study coordinator: Kavoussi, Nicholas L

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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.