Scientists are developing a new laser system that could remove cancer surgeons more accurately and safely.
Experts at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh are developing a new system to help surgeons differentiate cancer cells into a much better solution, removing them without damaging healthy tissue. visit.
Professor Jonathan Shephard has awarded £ 1.2 million to the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) to develop the system.
The new system will be centered around ultrafast picosecond lasers that deliver energy in a series of pulses one trillion seconds long.
The team has already confirmed that the concept works for colorectal cancers, and are now working with clinicians at Leeds and Leeds University Teaching Hospital NHS Trust to develop the new system for brain cancers.
Dr Shephard said: “Previously we focused on colorectal cancers. We proved in the laboratory that our laser system can remove cancer cells in a way that prevents damage to the surrounding healthy cells – within the width of human hair.
“Because the laser beats are so short, there is no time for heat to burn the material around, and that is what happens with conventional surgical instruments.
“We are building our understanding of lasers in colorectal cancer surgery towards a clinical application, and are working on modifying it for brain, head and neck cancers, where it could bring significant benefits to patients.
“The most important principle of any cancer surgery is to ensure that all cancer cells are removed; if you don’t do that the cancer will come back.
“This is a very accurate test, even microscopic loss of healthy material and damage to nearby critical structures can have a significant impact on activity and a significant impact on quality of life.”
The team will also focus on developing a flexible, fiber-based optical system that can target and remove two orders of magnitude smaller than conventional technology.
Professor David Jayne, consultant surgeon at Leeds Teaching Hospital NHS Trust, said: “Surgical lasers are opening up exciting new approaches to cancer surgery.
“Laser accuracy combined with imaging to properly discriminate cancer from conventional material greatly enhances surgeons’ ability to completely remove cancers with minimal side effects for patients.”
The team will be working on improving the system over the next three years.