Using advanced imaging technology to improve breast cancer surgery outcomes

Deep learning enabled, deep ultraviolet scanning microscopy for intraoperative assessment of margin status during breast cancer surgery

['FUNDING_R01'] · MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11136223

This study is testing a new imaging technology that helps doctors check the edges of tissue removed during breast surgery in real-time, aiming to reduce the chances of needing extra surgeries and improve outcomes for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMARQUETTE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MILWAUKEE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11136223 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new imaging technology that uses deep learning and deep ultraviolet scanning microscopy to assess the status of surgical margins during breast-conserving surgery. By providing real-time, accurate evaluations of the entire surgical specimen, the goal is to reduce the need for additional surgeries caused by positive margins. This approach aims to enhance the precision of intraoperative assessments, potentially leading to better outcomes for patients. The technology seeks to overcome the limitations of current methods, which can be time-consuming and less accurate.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women undergoing breast-conserving surgery for breast cancer who may be at risk of having positive surgical margins.

Not a fit: Patients who have already undergone mastectomy or those with advanced-stage breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the rates of cancer recurrence and the need for additional surgeries in breast cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been advancements in imaging technologies for surgical assessments, this specific approach using deep learning and deep ultraviolet microscopy is novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.

Where this research is happening

MILWAUKEE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer Cell

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.