Using fluorescence imaging to improve breast cancer surgery outcomes

ALA-induced Fluorescence Imaging of Breast Cancers Using the Handheld PRODIGI and Eagle Imaging Devices

University Health Network, Toronto · NCT01837225

This study is testing a new imaging tool to see if using a special dye during breast cancer surgery can help doctors find tumors better and reduce the need for extra surgeries.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment90 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorUniversity Health Network, Toronto (other)
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations2 sites (Toronto, Ontario and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT01837225 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to enhance breast cancer surgery by utilizing a handheld optical imaging device called PRODIGI, which detects fluorescence signals in breast tissue. The study will assess the effectiveness of a contrast agent, 5-ALA, in increasing the visibility of tumor margins compared to standard white light. Patients will be divided into cohorts receiving different doses of 5-ALA during their breast conservation surgery, allowing researchers to evaluate the optimal dose for improving tumor detection. The ultimate goal is to reduce the need for additional surgeries by improving the identification of cancerous tissue during the initial operation.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are female patients aged 18 and older with primary invasive breast cancer who have consented to standard surgical procedures.

Not a fit: Patients who have undergone pre-operative therapy or have conditions such as photosensitivity or liver disease may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this technology could significantly reduce the likelihood of cancer recurrence and the need for follow-up surgeries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using fluorescence imaging for tumor detection, but this specific approach with PRODIGI and 5-ALA is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Female patients with breast cancer
2. 18 years or older
3. Have consented for their standard surgeries for primary invasive breast cancers, with or without auxiliary procedure.
4. Have existing biopsies banked at the hospital (for ALA patients)

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Pre-operative therapy (including chemotherapy, endocrine therapy and radiotherapy)
2. Inability to consent
3. Prior history of photosensitivity, liver disease, or recurrent disease
4. Pregnancy
5. Absence of in-house core biopsy in tissue bank

Where this trial is running

Toronto, Ontario and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Breast Cancer, Fluorescence Imaging, Breast Tumor Margins, Real-time Assessment

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.