Using photoacoustic imaging to improve hysterectomy safety
Official title: Photoacoustic Image Guidance of Hysterectomies
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11123385 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to make hysterectomy surgeries safer by using special imaging technology that helps doctors see important structures in real-time, which could lower the chances of serious complications for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $383,886 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EB032358-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11123385 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women scheduled to undergo hysterectomy procedures.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing hysterectomies or those with contraindications for surgery may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the safety of hysterectomies by utilizing photoacoustic imaging technology. The approach aims to provide real-time feedback during surgery, allowing surgeons to accurately identify the positions of critical structures such as the ureters and uterine arteries. By optimizing the imaging system, the goal is to prevent ureteral injuries, which are serious complications that can lead to significant health issues. Patients undergoing hysterectomies may benefit from this technology, as it could reduce the risk of complications and improve surgical outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of ureteral injuries during hysterectomies, leading to safer surgical procedures and better patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using photoacoustic imaging for surgical guidance, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bell, Muyinatu a. Lediju — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Bell, Muyinatu a. Lediju
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.