The clinical evaluation of (newly developed) imaging tools will be focused on
- the improved detection of esophageal, colorectal, bladder, lung and renal tumors during optical endoscopy.
- the detection of tumor boundaries by intra-operative imaging.
Ad 1. We will continue the application of multi-modality imaging (high resolution endoscopy, narrow band and (auto) fluorescence imaging) with newly developed modalities (e.g. confocal laser endomicroscopy and OCT) to improve the sensitivity and specificity for pre-malignant lesions.
Ad. 2 For intra-operative imaging, newly developed devices will be evaluated in the clinic during surgery, e.g. for guided biopsy and tumor boundary imaging. Intra-operative imaging modalities such as ultrasound and fluorescence and optical coherence imaging will be utilized, in combination with image fusion techniques of pre-operative images. Clinical validation during oncology surgical procedures will be accompanied with navigation tools, e.g. as a GPS for medical instruments. These results will be used for further implementation of microscopic and macroscopic imaging devices in P6.
Deliverables
New confocal laser endomicroscopy and OCT modalities with improved sensitivity and specificity for pre-malignant lesions.
Milestones
Range of sensitivity defined for high resolution endoscopy, narrow band and (auto)fluorescence imaging.
Leadership competences
Prof. dr. Paul Fockens
- Head of the Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology at the Academic Medical Center of the University of Amsterdam. He has (co-)authored more than 170 peer reviewed publication and 15 book chapters (H-index=34).
- He has been promotor of 7 PhD students and is currently responsible for 20 PhD students. The current research of the department focuses on early detection and treatment of neoplasia in the GI tract and pancreas, inflammatory bowel disease, cholestatic liver diseases and neurogastroenterology.
