Biopsies are necessary medical procedures to screen for diseases, such as cancer, by cutting out tiny pieces of tissue to take a closer look at a microscope. The method of biopsies has not changed in the past 100 years, which inspired a team of engineers to upgrade the process.

Science Daily reported that researchers from Columbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science had developed a technology that could someday replace conventional biopsies and histology using high-speed 3D imaging. The technology can capture images of tissues to guide surgeons in navigating tumors without needing to remove tissues and wait for the results.

High-Speed 3D Imaging Give Biopsies An Upgrade Similar to
(Photo: Pixabay/jarmoluk)
High-Speed 3D Imaging Give Biopsies An Upgrade Similar to "The Matrix" Movie.

MediSCAPE: The High-Speed 3D Medical Imaging

Most microscopes used in surgeries only provide a small 2D picture of the tissue, limiting the view of important details. The difference between 2D and 3D could be explained by comparing a flat Polaroid picture to the "Bullet Time" scene from The Matrix. A view of the tissue at different angles gives surgeons more details that a 2D image cannot capture.

Professor Elizabeth Hillman, the senior author of the study, explains that tissues look different at different depths. So, having a 3D image that gives a different look at it at different angles will significantly help doctors. At present, a tiny piece of tissue cut from the patient is still required for biopsy, which takes longer.

However, the technology called MediSCAPE probes very quickly on the cells to make a large-scale 3D view of the tiny features of the tissues. Doctors will drag the small probe across the tissue and instantly give the result without requiring invasive procedures.

The clearer picture gives surgeons a better view of the healthy tissues and easily compares them to unhealthy ones, making it easier to decide how best to cut the tumor so no diseased tissues are left. The new process keeps the healthy tissues unharmed and unaffected.

The team also highlighted how the new technology could guide surgeons in identifying different types of tissues, including nerve, fat, muscle, cartilage, and scar tissues.

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MediSCAPE Not Intended to Replace All Types of Biopsies

WebMD reported that despite its impressive technology, Hillman cautions that the high-speed 3D imaging MediSCAPE is not intended to replace all biopsies. But it could be useful in examining sensitive areas, such as the brain, where removing a diseased tissue might lead to loss of function, swelling, seizures, and strokes.

Hillman pointed out that early uses for the technology will most likely focus on open surgeries, like the abdomen, cervix, brain, ears, nose, and throat, where tissues are exposed to guide robotic surgeries.

Nonetheless, the technology of MediSCAPE still proves that 3D imaging is possible. However, it might take five more years before it becomes available to the public since many more clinical trials are needed. The team believes it could revolutionize biopsies.

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