Optical Lymphatic Imaging via Fluorescent Dye Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies lack non-invasive methods to effectively image and assess lymphatic function in vivo, which is crucial for diagnosing and managing lymphedema and other lymphatic diseases, as existing methods are limited in their ability to dynamically measure lymph propulsion and function.
Innovation Solution
The use of highly sensitive optical imaging and fluorescent spectroscopy techniques to track organic, soluble dyes through lymphatic structures, combined with novel imaging agents that target lymph endothelial cell receptors, such as hyaluronic acid, to provide quantitative information on lymph propulsion and function, enabling deep tissue imaging and potential markers for tumor angiogenesis and metastases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional imaging methods are used, then the imaging process is simple, but the ability to non-invasively image and assess lymphatic function in vivo is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses organic dyes as intermediary substances that are administered to the patient and accumulate in lymphatic structures. These dyes serve as mediators between the imaging system and the lymphatic system, enabling non-invasive visualization of lymph flow, propulsion, and function without requiring direct intervention in the lymphatic vessels themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces invasive mechanical imaging approaches with optical imaging methods. By using fluorescent dyes excited by light sources and detected through optical sensors, the system substitutes mechanical intervention with optical field-based measurement, enabling non-invasive real-time assessment of lymphatic function.
2Measurement precision
If non-invasive imaging methods are developed, then lymphatic function can be assessed in vivo, but the measurement precision of lymph propulsion is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes fluorescent dyes that exhibit specific color changes when excited by light of particular wavelengths. The dyes absorb light at one wavelength and emit fluorescence at a different wavelength, creating a detectable color change signal that allows precise measurement of lymph propulsion and flow characteristics non-invasively.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic imaging sequences where images are captured at regular time intervals to track the movement of dye through lymphatic structures. This periodic detection approach enables calculation of flow velocity, propulsion force, and other dynamic parameters by analyzing the temporal progression of dye migration between successive images.
3Productivity
If real-time dynamic measurement is implemented, then lymph propulsion can be quantified, but the imaging time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent involves preliminary administration of fluorescent dyes to the patient before imaging begins. The dyes are allowed to distribute and accumulate in the lymphatic structures in advance, ensuring that when imaging commences, the lymphatic vessels are already optimally labeled for detection. This preliminary preparation enables efficient real-time imaging without requiring prolonged scanning times.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous imaging or continuous acquisition of image sequences at high frame rates during the lymphatic imaging process. This continuous detection ensures that no critical dynamic events are missed and allows for real-time calculation of propulsion parameters, maintaining uninterrupted measurement of lymph flow dynamics throughout the assessment period.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for non-invasive, real-time assessment of lymphatic function, providing quantitative measurements of lymph propulsion and flow velocity, and enabling detailed imaging of lymph architecture, which can aid in the diagnosis and management of lymphatic diseases and cancer.
Implementation Method 1
The organic dye generally has an excitation wavelength. The method further comprises illuminating the tissue surface with excitation light to excite the organic dye. In addition, the method comprises detecting the emission from the organic dye.
Data Source
AI summary
Novel methods and imaging agents for functional imaging of lymph structures are disclosed herein. Embodiments of the methods utilize highly sensitive optical imaging and fluorescent spectroscopy techniques to track or monitor packets of organic dye flowing in one or more lymphatic structures. The packets of organic dye may be tracked to provide quantitative information regarding lymph propulsion and function. In particular, lymph flow velocity and pulse frequency may be determined using the disclosed methods.