Using special fluorescent probes to help surgeons see and preserve cranial nerves during surgery
Official title: Fluorescence Guided Surgery using Near Infrared Nerve-specific Probes for Cranial Nerve Preservation
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11084320 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to help surgeons see important nerves better during brain surgeries, which could help prevent injuries and make recovery easier 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 start | December 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $88,948 |
| NIH project number | 3R01NS129121-03S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11084320 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing skull base surgeries who are at risk of cranial nerve injury.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing surgical procedures involving cranial nerves may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving surgical outcomes by enhancing the visualization of cranial nerves during skull base surgeries. It aims to develop and utilize fluorescence-guided surgery techniques with nerve-specific probes to prevent nerve injuries, which are a significant source of complications and morbidity. By integrating advanced imaging techniques, the study seeks to provide surgeons with better tools to identify and preserve these critical nerves during minimally invasive procedures. This approach could lead to improved patient safety and quality of life post-surgery.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risk of nerve injuries during surgeries, leading to better recovery and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using fluorescence-guided techniques in surgery, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
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.