New tools for better cancer surgery that help see nerves and cancer at the same time
Multichannel Fluorescence Guided Surgery Tools Enabling Simultaneous Cancer Margin and Nerve Visualization in Prostatectomy
This study is working on new tools to help surgeons see both cancer and important nerves during prostate cancer surgery, which could lead to better results and fewer side effects like incontinence and impotence for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11070400 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving prostate cancer surgery by developing advanced tools that allow surgeons to visualize both cancerous tissue and critical nerve structures simultaneously during the procedure. By using fluorescence-guided surgery techniques, the project aims to enhance the clarity of images seen by surgeons, which could lead to better outcomes in terms of cancer removal and nerve preservation. The approach involves the use of specialized contrast agents that highlight these areas in real-time, potentially reducing complications such as incontinence and impotence that can arise from surgery. The goal is to create a safer and more effective surgical experience for patients undergoing prostatectomy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are men diagnosed with prostate cancer who are considering prostatectomy as a treatment option.
Not a fit: Patients who have advanced prostate cancer that is not amenable to surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve surgical outcomes for prostate cancer patients by reducing the risk of nerve damage and ensuring complete cancer removal.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using fluorescence-guided techniques for surgical applications, indicating potential success for this novel approach in prostate cancer surgery.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gibbs, Summer Lynne — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Gibbs, Summer Lynne
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 below.