Real-Time, Dye-Free Imaging of Mastectomy Flap Viability

Who could benefit from this research

What this research studies

This project develops a noncontact, real-time imaging system to assess blood flow in mastectomy skin flaps without using dye. It aims to improve prediction of flap viability by combining pre-, intra-, and post-operative information with depth-sensitive imaging of perfusion. The approach focuses on identifying ischemic tissue early to guide treatment decisions and potentially reduce complications like flap necrosis. The study is conducted in collaboration with a university and a private imaging company, using a novel laser-based technique. If successful, it could lead to safer reconstruction outcomes and shorter hospital stays for patients.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• Bioptics Imaging LLC
  Lexington, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Yu, Guoqiang — Bioptics Imaging LLC
• Study coordinator: Yu, Guoqiang

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

• Bionic Breast: Restoring touch and reducing pain after mastectomy

  A small study tests a neural prosthesis to bring back touch and ease chronic pain for women who have had a mastectomy.

  NIH research University of Chicago · Chicago, United States · NIH-11394424

• Bionic breast neuroprosthesis to restore touch and reduce pain after mastectomy

  This trial offers a small implant that senses touch on the reconstructed breast and stimulates chest nerves to bring back feeling and ease chronic pain for women after mastectomy.

  NIH research University of Chicago · Chicago, United States · NIH-11140546

• A device to restore touch sensation and reduce pain after breast surgery

  This study is testing a new device called the Bionic Breast Device that aims to help women who have had a mastectomy by restoring touch sensations and reducing chronic pain, so if you're a breast cancer survivor looking for ways to improve your quality of life, this could be for you!

  NIH research University of Chicago · Chicago, United States · NIH-10894812

• Training to manage pain after breast cancer surgery

  This study is looking at how teaching women with ongoing pain after breast cancer surgery some helpful ways to cope with that pain can make them feel better both emotionally and physically.

  NIH research Duke University · Durham, United States · NIH-10889926

• Improving blood flow and oxygenation assessment in mastectomy skin flaps

  This study is testing a new imaging technique that helps doctors see blood flow and oxygen levels in the skin during breast reconstruction surgery, aiming to make the surgery safer and improve recovery for women after mastectomy.

  NIH research University of Kentucky · Lexington, United States · NIH-10746442

• Reverse Fly Exercise for Supraspinatus Tendinitis in Women on Aromatase Inhibitors After Mastectomy

  This study tests whether adding reverse fly exercises to standard tendonitis therapy helps relief in women aged 50–70 who had mastectomy and are on aromatase inhibitors.

  Recruiting Cairo University · Cairo · NCT07763080

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.