Surgeons at Pella Regional Health Center are now using fluorescence imaging technology to further enhance the vision, precision and control of minimally invasive da Vinci robotic surgery.

The fluorescence imaging technology offers the capability of providing real-time, image guided identification of key anatomical landmarks. The specially designed camera and endoscopes allow surgeons to capture images of tissue and surrounding blood vessels by injecting a green colored dye that is then activated by near-infrared light. The camera can then switch views between standard real time images and images illuminated by the dye. The technology also allows surgeons to differentiate between malignant and normal tissue as the surgery is being performed because cancerous tissue stains less bright than normal tissue.

“This technique permits the surgeon to perform complex surgeries in a more precise, sparing manner,” said Diane McCombs, da Vinci team specialist at Pella Regional. “It further advances the benefits of robotic surgery for better patient outcomes.”