Robot-assisted Spectroscopic Photoacoustic Imaging for Guiding Surgical and Thermal Therapeutic Procedures
Abstract: Image-guided interventions have become increasingly important in clinical practice, enabling minimally invasive procedures with reduced morbidity and improved outcomes. However, many of these interventions lack intraoperative feedback on critical functional information. Photoacoustic (PA) imaging is an emerging imaging technology based on laser-generated ultrasound, which depicts the tissue’s optical absorption, offering the mapping of functional information such as neurovascular anatomy and molecular contrast agents.
This dissertation focuses on the implementation of spectroscopic PA imaging for tissue characterization, aiming to provide functional information for surgical guidance. Specifically, the research explores the application of PA imaging in detecting ablation-induced necrotic lesions during cardiac radiofrequency (RF) ablation, facilitating neurovascular detection and mapping in robot-assisted surgery, and enhancing prostate cancer detection through the use of tumor-targeted contrast agents. The core of this work involves the development of algorithms for tissue characterization, enabling real-time feedback. Additionally, efforts are made towards the development of miniaturized instruments and their integration into robotic systems. By advancing the capabilities of PA imaging, this research contributes to improving the precision and effectiveness of image-guided interventions, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes in various clinical scenarios.
Advisor: Professor Haichong (Kai) Zhang
Committee: Professor Gregory Fischer, Professor Loris Fichera, and Professor Mehrmohammadi
Zoom Link: https://wpi.zoom.us/my/shanggao