Researchers from the First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University have developed a surgical technique that significantly improves precision in bladder cancer treatment through advanced fluorescent imaging technology. The method involves injecting indocyanine green (ICG) into the lower limbs and perineum, allowing surgeons to track lymphatic pathways using a 4K fluorescent laparoscopic imaging system during pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND). In a study of 54 patients undergoing radical cystectomy, this innovative approach demonstrated substantial improvements over traditional surgical methods.
The research, published in UroPrecision, revealed that the dual injection technique reduced PLND surgery time by an average of 6.2 minutes and increased lymph node dissection accuracy from 75.91% to 93.41%. This enhanced precision is critical for preventing cancer metastasis and improving patient prognosis. Dr. Xiaofeng Yang, the principal investigator, emphasized the technique's potential to become standard practice in radical cystectomy by providing unparalleled visualization of lymphatic pathways.
The implications extend beyond immediate surgical improvements, as the enhanced visualization of lymphatic systems could offer deeper insights into tumor metastasis patterns. This advancement might drive future research and treatment strategies across various cancer types. Bladder cancer remains a significant medical challenge, particularly invasive cases requiring complex surgical interventions, and this approach addresses critical limitations in current techniques.
The study was supported by the Local Science and Technology Development Fund of Shanxi Province and the Patent Conversion Project Fund, demonstrating collaborative efforts in medical innovation. The technique represents a promising development in urological oncology, potentially elevating the overall quality of bladder cancer treatment while contributing to broader cancer research advancements. Further details about the methodology and findings are available in the original publication at https://www.uroprecisionjournal.org.
