Improving cancer surgery with advanced imaging probes

Optimizing PET Radio-Guided Probes for Laparoscopic Surgery: Small Compton-Angles Collimation for Increased SNR and Size and Weight Reduction

NIH-funded research University of California at Davis · NIH-11033946

This study is testing a new, smaller surgical tool that helps doctors find cancerous areas more easily during prostate surgery, which could lead to better results for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11033946 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new type of surgical probe that enhances the detection of cancerous tissues during laparoscopic prostate surgery. By optimizing the use of Positron Emission Tomography (PET) radiotracers, the project aims to create a smaller and more effective probe that can accurately identify tumor regions that are often missed. The approach involves using innovative collimation techniques to improve sensitivity and reduce the size of the probe, making it suitable for minimally invasive procedures. Patients undergoing prostate cancer surgery may benefit from this technology, which aims to improve surgical outcomes and reduce the likelihood of residual cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are men diagnosed with prostate cancer who are scheduled for laparoscopic surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers other than prostate cancer or those not undergoing surgical treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer surgeries, reducing the chances of missed tumors and improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for cancer detection, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in surgical practices.

Where this research is happening

Davis, 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.
Conditions anti-cancer therapy
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.