Optical Filters For Fluorescence Guided Surgery (FGS)

Cancer remains a major health issue worldwide and requires continuous advancements in technology, medicine, and treatment. Optically-based technologies have become increasingly important in cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment, as there is a need for innovative medicines and therapies. Fluorescence Guided Surgery (FGS) or Fluorescence Image-Guided Surgery (FIGS) is a technique that has transformed surgical procedures. FGS combines fluorescence imaging with traditional methods to give surgeons a real-time high-contrast view during the removal of tumors.

This approach uses fluorescent contrast agents that are administered before surgery, allowing stained tumor cells to be visualized and enabling better tissue identification based on molecular differences. FGS is also useful in sentinel lymph node mapping, angiography, lymphography, and anatomical imaging of structures like ureters and bile ducts. The success of FGS requires high-resolution imaging systems that can distinguish between fluorescently labeled and unlabeled tissues. This includes real-time display of both white light and fluorescence images, which allows seamless navigation for surgeons. The use of non-toxic contrast agents is critical in FGS, and near-infrared (NIR) fluorophores are the preferred choice due to their deeper tissue penetration and reduced background interference.

In this application note, you will learn about the challenges associated with background signals and noise in the surgical environment, the importance of achieving high detection sensitivity in FGS imaging, and how superior optical filters play a crucial role in maximizing detection sensitivity by reducing background light and enhancing fluorescent signal collection.