Optical technologies are evolving in many biomedical areas including the biomedical imaging disciplines. Regarding the absorption properties of physiological molecules in living tissue, the optical window ranging from 700 to 900 nm allows to use fluorescent dyes for novel diagnostic solutions. Here we investigate the potential of two different carbocyanine-based dyes fluorescent in the near infrared as contrast agents for in vivo imaging of subcutaneously grown tumours in laboratory animals.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground: Surgical management of patients with metastatic or recurrent rectal cancer remains controversial. Self-expanding metal stents are increasingly used for palliative treatment of advanced tumors, although long-term results are not yet available.
Methods: Between 1996 and 2003, 521 patients underwent surgery for rectal neoplasms.
Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of a self-expanding plastic stent in the treatment of thoracic leaks after esophagectomy for cancer.
Summary Background Data: Anastomotic leaks are a major cause of morbidity and mortality after esophageal resection. Treatment options range from aggressive surgery to conservative management, but there remains much controversy on the best treatment.