Chromophores in operative surgery : current practice and rationalized development

Abstract

Background: Chromophore-containing molecules feature extensively in surgical practice, with synthetic dyes gaining popularity over endogenous optical adjuncts. New applications for chromophores in diagnostics and operative treatment exploit unique chemical structures suited for illuminating target tissues beyond the visual spectrum, ranging from ultraviolet (UV) to near-infrared (NIR). This review outlines the rationale for surgical chromophore application, the weaknesses and risks in each class of these compounds, and areas of foreseeable potential for employment of specialized contrast agents. Method: An English-language literature search applied the following Boolean Search String: “dye OR Lake OR Stain OR chromophore” AND “tox$ OR terato* OR carcino$ OR Allerg$ OR surg$ OR clinic” using EMBASE, PUBMED, PUBMED central and OVIDSp, with back-referencing throughWeb of Knowledge™. Results: Based on the primary literature, this study proposes a surgically relevant classification systemof chromophores in current use,which facilitates risk/benefit consideration for the surgeonwho employs them, andwhich facilitates clinically oriented development. Conclusions: The next stage of development for optically active surgical adjuncts must address practical constraints whilst minimizing risks of adverse effects. Exploiting the technology's full potential also requires improvements in the usefulness of imagery equipment.