Real time vascular imaging during solid organ transplant

Abstract

The invention provides methods and systems for imaging vessels in a subject. In certain embodiments the vessels may be associated with a solid organ transplant.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The invention relates generally to the field of medical imaging. Certain embodiments of the invention provide methods for imaging of vasculature in a subject. Certain other embodiments provide systems which are useful for imaging vasculature in a subject. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Imaging of biological tissues and organs assists doctors in both diagnosis and treatment. A variety of medical techniques which are suitable for imaging biological tissues and organs are known. These include traditional x-rays, ultra-sound, as well as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computerized tomography (CT). A variety of dyes used in medical imaging have also been described including radio opaque dyes, fluorescent dyes, as well as, colormetric dyes (see e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,699,798; 5,279,298; 6,351,663; and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 365,028). Imaging techniques and systems using fluorescent dyes have been described for the heart and eye (see, U....

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0006] In certain embodiments the invention provides a portable system useful for imaging at least one vessel which is surgically joined to a transplanted organ in a recipient subject comprising: a) a fluorescent dye; b) an energy source capable of emitting sufficient energy such that the fluorescent dye fluoresces; and c) an imaging head.

[0007] In certain embodiments the invention provides a portable system useful for imaging at least one vessel which is surgically joined to a transplanted organ in a recip

Problems solved by technology

Traditional intra-operative imaging techniques, are frequently ineffective, expensive and inconvenient.

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