Multimodal Non-Invasive Imaging for High Grade Glioma Resection
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Real-Time, Multimodal, Non-invasive Imaging for High Grade Glioma Resection: Combining Multispectral Imaging analysis (MSI) and Probe-Based Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy (pCLE) to Enhance Tumour Margin Detection and Identification of Eloquent Brain Tissue
IRAS ID
362412
Contact name
Becky Ward
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Imperial College London
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
In cancer surgery, the goal of surgery is to remove as much of the cancer as possible as safely as possible. It is important in modern neurosurgery to calculate the margins of the brain tumour intraoperatively as accurately as possible, to offer the best oncological outcome whilst at the same time, minimising damage to the surrounding tissue.
Currently, methods used during surgery to help with accuracy have several limitations, including not updating during the operation. They may also rely on the skill and familiarity of the surgeon with particular tools.
In this study, we will investigate the potential application of two advanced, non-invasive imaging techniques: multi-spectral imaging (MSI) and probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE) in brain tumour (high grade glioma) removal. These optical techniques consist of a camera and filters that can be used with standard operating equipment, as well as a hand-held probe for non-invasive 'optical biopsy'. The research procedure involves acquiring the images and processing the data. No additional interventional or invasive procedures will be performed on patients.
The data from this study will be used to guide the design and development of a user-friendly augmented reality (AR) display. This will combine in a simple, complementary way, the 'widefield' information of the MSI along with the microscopic 'confirmation' of the pCLE. The development of this visual system may inform future translational research. However, this is beyond the scope of this study and will require formal validation in subsequent studies.
REC name
South West - Frenchay Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/SW/0065
Date of REC Opinion
14 May 2026
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion