Imaging Technique Aided Colorectal Cancer Surgery
Researchers tested a dual-tracer method to help surgeons better identify and remove liver tumors during surgery.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Cancer
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A new prospective study evaluated the feasibility of using multiwavelength fluorescence imaging to improve the precision of colorectal liver metastases surgery. The findings demonstrate that this dual-tracer approach can help surgeons identify tumor margins more effectively.
Why it matters
Improving tumor visualization is critical for surgeons aiming to remove cancer completely while sparing healthy tissue. This dual-tracer method seeks to overcome the limited tumor specificity seen with traditional imaging agents currently used in clinical practice.
In a prospective feasibility study of 10 patients, researchers used two fluorescent tracers to visualize colorectal liver metastases. While the method reached 100% specificity for margin discrimination, its 70% patient-level sensitivity did not meet the predefined 80% benchmark for success.
The details
The procedure involved administering 10 mg of SGM-101 four days before surgery and 0.5 mg/kg of indocyanine green seven days before surgery. By using multiwavelength imaging, surgeons observed no spectral interference between the two agents. This allowed for improved discrimination of tumor margins, helping surgeons identify all R1 margins during the operative process.
Timeline
7 days before surgery: Patients received indocyanine green.
4 days before surgery: Patients received SGM-101.
Health Landscape
This research contributes to the ongoing refinement of fluorescence-guided surgery techniques designed to improve oncologic outcomes. It represents a potential shift from relying on single-agent tracers toward multiwavelength systems that provide more nuanced tumor visualization.
This study is a preliminary development and does not currently change standard surgical protocols. Patients facing liver surgery for colorectal cancer should discuss the latest available intraoperative imaging options with their surgical oncology team.
The takeaway
This study provides a proof-of-concept that multiwavelength imaging can help surgeons distinguish tumor margins more clearly. If you or a loved one are scheduled for cancer surgery, consider asking your surgical team about the current imaging protocols they utilize to ensure the highest level of precision.
Further reading
For more on evolving surgical approaches, visit Cancer.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Nature.
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