Improving nerve visualization during head and neck cancer surgery
Official title: Developing SWIR fluorophores for enhanced visualization of buried nerves in head and neck cancer surgery
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11324402 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new dyes that help doctors see nerves better during head and neck cancer surgeries, making it easier for them to avoid damaging these important nerves and ensuring safer operations.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | June 13, 2025 |
| Project end | June 12, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $620,592 |
| NIH project number | 1R56DE034779-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11324402 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing head and neck cancer surgery who are at risk of nerve damage.
✕Less likely to help
Patients not undergoing surgery or those with cancer types outside of the head and neck region may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing new fluorescent dyes that can enhance the visibility of nerves during head and neck cancer surgeries. By creating specialized fluorophores that work in the short-wave infrared spectrum, the project aims to improve the identification of buried nerves, which is crucial for preventing nerve damage during surgery. The approach involves using advanced imaging techniques to ensure that surgeons can accurately locate and preserve nerves, thereby reducing the risk of complications. This innovative method seeks to address the limitations of current visualization techniques that rely on traditional lighting and anatomical knowledge.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce nerve injuries during surgery, leading to better patient outcomes and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using fluorescence-guided surgery techniques, but this specific approach with short-wave infrared fluorophores is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Lei Garrett — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Wang, Lei Garrett
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.