Optical imaging guidance in oncologic surgery and interventional oncology

Over recent decades, optical imaging (OI) has become an integral part of medical imaging, offering significant advantages over other modalities, such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). OI is distinguished by its real-time imaging capability, cost-effectiveness, portability, absence of ionizing radiation, and high patient acceptability. The introduction of advanced optical dyes (including FDA-approved agents like indocyanine green, Cytalux, and Gleolan) has greatly enhanced its clinical utility. OI has shown clear benefits in the management of patients with cancer, originally by open surgery and now extending to minimally invasive, image-guided interventional procedures. This review highlights recent developments in OI for oncology, emphasizing its benefits for clinicians in guiding surgical and interventional procedures.