Tabletop SWIR Tissue Imaging for Radiation-Free Lymph Node Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging techniques for biological tissue, such as lymph nodes and biopsy clips, are inefficient, expensive, and pose health risks due to the use of x-ray and radioactive agents, and are not specifically suited for locating small features deep within tissue samples.
Innovation Solution
A tabletop imaging device using short-wave infrared (SWIR) illumination with protected optical components and a transparent substrate for imaging biological samples, allowing real-time image display and integration of a cutting board for specimen preparation, enabling precise and portable imaging without contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If general-purpose imaging modalities (CT, MRI, ultrasound, PET) are used to image biological tissue, then imaging capability is provided, but contrast for lymph nodes is insufficient and other organs/tissues show up with equal or better contrast causing distractions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using SWIR illumination specifically targeted at enhancing lymph node visualization. The system uses wavelength-selective imaging (1000-2600 nm range) that provides superior contrast for lymph nodes compared to general-purpose modalities, making the imaging modality specialized rather than universal.
2Measurement precision
If CT imaging is used, then lymph nodes can be identified, but X-ray exposure creates health hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces ionizing radiation-based CT imaging with optical SWIR imaging. Instead of using X-rays to image lymph nodes, the system uses short-wave infrared light (1000-2600 nm wavelength) that provides equivalent or superior lymph node visualization without the harmful radiation effects.
3Measurement precision
If PET imaging is used, then lymph nodes can be identified, but radioactive agents create health hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces radioactive tracer-based PET imaging with optical SWIR imaging. The system uses wavelength-selective optical detection in the 1000-2600 nm range to visualize lymph nodes without requiring injection of radioactive agents, thereby eliminating the associated health hazards.
4Measurement precision
If MRI imaging is used, then lymph nodes can be identified, but expensive instrumentation and incompatibility with metal implants are drawbacks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex MRI instrumentation with a simpler optical SWIR imaging system. The device uses SWIR light sources and detectors in the 1000-2600 nm wavelength range, providing lymph node visualization capability without the expensive magnets, gradient coils, and complex signal processing required by MRI, and without restrictions for patients with metal implants.
5Measurement precision
If ultrasound imaging is used, then lymph nodes can be imaged, but imaging contrast and resolution are low due to long imaging wavelength
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the imaging wavelength parameter from ultrasound frequencies (mechanical waves) to SWIR optical frequencies (1000-2600 nm). This parameter change enables much higher resolution and contrast imaging of lymph nodes because optical wavelengths are significantly shorter than ultrasound wavelengths, allowing for finer spatial resolution.
6Measurement precision
If biopsy clips are located using manual palpation, then biopsy sites can be tracked, but the process is imprecise and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical palpation with automated optical SWIR imaging. The system uses SWIR illumination and detection to visually locate biopsy clips within resected tissue, providing precise spatial information without requiring time-consuming manual exploration by the surgeon.
7Measurement precision
If large cabinet-sized X-ray machines are used to locate biopsy clips, then biopsy clips can be imaged, but the equipment is expensive and requires radiation protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces large cabinet-sized X-ray machines with a compact optical SWIR imaging device. The system uses SWIR light sources and detectors mounted on or near the resected specimen, providing biopsy clip visualization capability without requiring large radiation shielding enclosures or complex radiation safety infrastructure.
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
The device provides effective imaging of lymph nodes and biopsy clips with enhanced penetration and contrast, avoiding radiation hazards and equipment contamination, while being affordable and user-friendly for medical practitioners.
Implementation Method 1
A SWIR light source disposed inside the main housing of the device, wherein the SWIR light source is configured to generate SWIR illumination light that is directed through the bottom of the transparent substrate to be incident on the tissue sample
Implementation Method 2
an image sensor disposed inside the main housing of the device, wherein the image sensor is configured to collect reflected SWIR light that is reflected by the tissue and passes from above the transparent substrate through the transparent substrate to be incident upon the image sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A tabletop device for short-wave infrared (SWIR) imaging of tissue comprises a main housing defining an interior cavity and an comprising upper surface having a transparent substrate thereon. A first SWIR light source inside the main housing generates illumination light that is directed through the bottom of the transparent substrate to be incident on a tissue sample. An image sensor inside the main housing is configured to collect reflected SWIR light that is reflected by the tissue. One or more processors inside the main housing are communicatively coupled to the image sensor and configured to generate an image of the tissue sample based on the reflected SWIR light. A display mounted to the main housing displays the generated image in real-time.