Polarization-sensitive multispectral tissue characterization for optimizing intestinal anastomosis

摘要

A novel imaging system that recommends potential suture placement for anastomosis to surgeons is developed. This is achieved by a multispectral imaging system coupled with polarizers and image analysis software. We performed preliminary imaging of ex vivo porcine intestine to evaluate the system. Vulnerable tissue regions including blood vessels were successfully identified and segmented. Thickness of different tissue areas is visualized. Strategies towards optimal points for suture placements have been discussed. Preliminary data suggest our imaging platform and analysis algorithm may be useful in avoiding blood vessels, identifying optimal regions for suture placements to perform safer operations in possibly reduced time.