Sentinel lymph node mapping of invasive urinary bladder cancer in animal models using invisible light.

Objectives: With conventional methodology, sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping of invasive urinary bladder cancer is technically challenging. This study was performed to determine the utility of invisible, near-infrared fluorescent (NIRF) light for patient-specific SLN mapping, in real time under complete image guidance.

Methods: Lymphatic tracers, injection volume, NIRF excitation fluence rate, light collection of emitted fluorescence, and degree of bladder distension were systematically optimized in normal dogs and pigs.