The technology allows SLN nodes to light up in green color which distinguishes them from the surrounding tissue and from the lymph nodes that should not be removed. Currently the most common method to detect and remove lymphnodes during surgery is use of blue dye and radiocolloid while using a gamma probe. Challenge with gamma probes is that it involves injecting radiation into the patient and is not widely available across healthcare institutes due to regulatory restrictions as well as high operating cost per surgery.
Stryker’s SPY-PHI infrared fluorescence technology with its accuracy and precision, not only helps improve patient outcomes, but also provides alternative options compared to current technologies like gamma probe.
FI can also be used in breast oncoplasty and in breast reconstruction post mastectomy. FI reveals areas that do not have adequate blood supply allowing the surgeon to remove tissues that would otherwise lead to problems in healing, infections and unnecessary additional surgeries which are costly. More than 250 peer-reviewed publications demonstrate that the use of this technology will improve clinical outcomes and help surgeons choose the best next line of treatment.