Evolving applications of fluorescence guided surgery in pediatric surgical oncology: A practical guide for surgeons

Current Surgical Approach to Pulmonary Metastasectomy

The lung is a common site of metastases for children and adolescents with a wide variety of solid tumors. The role for pulmonary metastasectomy is dictated by tumor histology and can serve either therapeutic or diagnostic purposes. Careful surgical planning is required to determine the optimal surgical approach and to ensure successful nodule localization. While high level data are limited, in appropriate situations pulmonary metastasectomy can confirm staging, guide therapy, improve survival, and reduce the need for other therapy escalations.

Lymph Node Staging and Treatment in Pediatric Patients With Soft Tissue Sarcomas: A Consensus Opinion From the Children's Oncology Group, European paediatric Soft Tissue Sarcoma Study Group, and the Cooperative Weichteilsarkom Studiengruppe

Accurate staging of nodal involvement in pediatric sarcoma patients is important to determine correct systemic and local therapy, with the goal to reduce subsequent recurrences. However, differences in lymph node staging strategies, definitions, and treatment protocols between the Children's Oncology Group (COG), European paediatric Soft tissue sarcoma Study Group (EpSSG), and the Cooperative Weichteilsarkom Studiengruppe (CWS) complicate comparisons. In this article, we aim to establish internationally recognized recommendations for lymph node assessment and treatment of children and adolescents diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) and non-rhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcoma (NRSTS) according to the Consensus Conference Standard Operating Procedure methodology.

Imaging adjuvants in pediatric surgical oncology

Surgery is a crucial component of pediatric cancer treatment, but conventional methods may lack precision. Image-guided surgery, including fluorescent and radioguided techniques, offers promise for enhancing tumor localization and facilitating precise resection. Intraoperative molecular imaging utilizes agents like indocyanine green to direct surgeons to occult deposits of tumor and to delineate tumor margins. Next-generation agents target tumors directly to improve specificity. Radioguided surgery, employing tracers like metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG), complements fluorescent techniques by allowing for detection of tumors at a greater depth. Dual-labeled agents combining both modalities are under development. Three-dimensional modeling and virtual/augmented reality aid in preoperative planning and intraoperative guidance. The above techniques show great promise to benefit patients with pediatric tumors, and their continued development will almost certainly improve surgical outcomes.

Contemporary surgical management of pediatric non-rhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcoma

Non-rhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcoma (STS) comprises most STS in pediatric patients. It is a diverse set of over 30 histologic subtypes. Treatment is based on risk group determined by tumor size, grade, and the presence of metastases. Surgical resection is a cornerstone of therapy, as tumors are often resistant to chemotherapy or radiation. While patients with isolated tumors less than 5 cm may undergo upfront resection, strong consideration should be given to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy to ensure negative margins at surgical resection and optimal outcomes. Sentinel lymph node biopsy is strongly recommended for clear cell and epithelioid sarcomas. The most common metastatic site is the lung, and metastases should be resected at the end of therapy, when feasible. Unfortunately, many high-risk patients progress on therapy, and alternative strategies including earlier metastatic control require investigation.

Let it glow: Intraoperative visualization of pulmonary metastases using pafolacianine, a next-generation fluorescent agent, for young adults undergoing pulmonary metastasectomy

A new generation of disease-specific molecular imaging agents is poised to revolutionize fluorescence-guided surgery. Pafolacianine has been approved for adult lung and ovarian cancers. We demonstrate a proof of concept for pediatric surgeons treating young adults with pulmonary metastatic sarcomas. Five successful fluorescence-guided pulmonary metastasectomy operations were performed in young adult patients with metastatic osteosarcoma or Ewing sarcoma following administration of pafolacianine. All osteosarcoma lesions identified using standard techniques were also markedly fluorescent in patients. Novel fluorescent molecular agents targeted to tumor-specific receptors have promise of increased sensitivity and specificity for detecting metastatic nodules and enhancing surgical clearance of disease.

Accurate Co-Localization of Luciferase Expression and Fluorescent Anti-CEA Antibody Targeting of Liver Metastases in an Orthotopic Mouse Model of Colon Cancer

BACKGROUND

The present study aimed to validate the accuracy of a tumor-specific antibody to target liver metastases of colorectal cancer.

METHODS

A humanized anti-CEA antibody conjugated to a fluorescent dye (M5A-IR800) was tested for targeting human colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRLMs) expressing luciferase in an orthotopic mouse model. Orthotopic mouse models of CRLMs were established by implanting fragments of a luciferase-expressing human colorectal cancer cell line, LS174T, in the liver of nude mice. Mice received 50 µg M5A-IR800 72 h prior to imaging. To test co-localization, bioluminescence imaging was performed using D-luciferin, which was given via intraperitoneal injection just prior to imaging.

RESULTS

Tumors were able to be visualized non-invasively through the skin with the luciferase-luciferin signal. Intra-abdominal imaging showed accurate labeling of CRLMs with M5A-IR800, which co-localized with the luciferase-luciferin signal.

CONCLUSIONS

The present results validate the accuracy of a tumor-specific anti-CEA antibody in targeting liver metastases of colorectal cancer.

Robotic-assisted Pediatric Thoracic and Abdominal Tumor Resection: An Initial Multi-center Review

INTRODUCTION

Robotic-assisted minimally invasive surgery (RA-MIS) for tumor resection is an emerging technology in the pediatric population with significant promise but unproven safety and feasibility.

METHODS

A multi-center retrospective review of patients ≤18 years undergoing RA-MIS tumor resection from December 2015-March 2023 was performed. Patient demographics, perioperative variables, and complication rates were analyzed.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine procedures were performed on 38 patients (17 thoracic, 22 abdominal); 37% female and 68% non-Hispanic White. Median age at surgery was 8.3 years (IQR 5.7, 15.7); the youngest was 1.7 years-old. Thoracic operations included resections of neuroblastic tumors (n = 16) and a single paraganglioma. The most common abdominal operations included resections of neuroblastic tumors (n = 5), pheochromocytomas (n = 3), and angiomyolipomas (n = 3). Six patients underwent retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) for paratesticular tumors. Median operating time for the cohort was 2:52 h (IQR 2:04, 4:31). Two thoracic cases required open conversion due to poor visualization and lack of working domain. All patients underwent complete tumor resection; one had tumor spillage from a positive margin (Wilms tumor). Median LOS was 1.5 days (IQR 1.1, 3.0). Postoperatively, one patient developed a chyle leak requiring interventional radiology drainage, but none required a return to the operating room.

CONCLUSIONS

Robotic-assisted surgery is safe and feasible for tumor resection in carefully selected pediatric patients, achieving complete resection with minimal morbidity and short LOS. Resection should be performed by those with robotic expertise for optimal outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

TYPE OF STUDY

Original Clinical Research.

A comprehensive survey on the use of deep learning techniques in glioblastoma

Glioblastoma, characterized as a grade 4 astrocytoma, stands out as the most aggressive brain tumor, often leading to dire outcomes. The challenge of treating glioblastoma is exacerbated by the convergence of genetic mutations and disruptions in gene expression, driven by alterations in epigenetic mechanisms. The integration of artificial intelligence, inclusive of machine learning algorithms, has emerged as an indispensable asset in medical analyses. AI is becoming a necessary tool in medicine and beyond. Current research on Glioblastoma predominantly revolves around non-omics data modalities, prominently including magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and positron emission tomography. Nonetheless, the assimilation of omic data-encompassing gene expression through transcriptomics and epigenomics-offers pivotal insights into patients' conditions. These insights, reciprocally, hold significant value in refining diagnoses, guiding decision- making processes, and devising efficacious treatment strategies. This survey's core objective encompasses a comprehensive exploration of noteworthy applications of machine learning methodologies in the domain of glioblastoma, alongside closely associated research pursuits. The study accentuates the deployment of artificial intelligence techniques for both non-omics and omics data, encompassing a range of tasks. Furthermore, the survey underscores the intricate challenges posed by the inherent heterogeneity of Glioblastoma, delving into strategies aimed at addressing its multifaceted nature.

Utility of Indocyanine Green for Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Pediatric Sarcoma and Melanoma

BACKGROUND

Indocyanine green (ICG) is a fluorescent dye with increasing use for adult sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB). The utility of ICG in pediatric oncology remains understudied. We aim to describe our experience using ICG for SLNB in pediatrics versus standard blue dye.

METHODS

A retrospective review of pediatric patients with melanoma or sarcoma who underwent SLNB with technetium plus ICG or blue dye from 2014 to 2023 at a large academic children's hospital was conducted.

RESULTS

Twenty-four patients were included; 58.3% were male with median age 13 years (range 4-21 years). The majority had a melanocytic tumor (91.7%) and 8.3% had sarcoma. All patients received technetium with concomitant blue dye (62.5%) or ICG (37.5%). ICG more reliably identified radioactive SLNs, compared to blue dye (mean 100% vs 78.3 ± 8.3%, p = 0.03). There was no significant difference in median operative time (ICG 82 min [68-203] vs blue dye 93 min [78-105], p = 0.84). Seven patients had positive SLNs (29.2%), with recurrence in 2 patients (8.3%) and 1 death (4.2%). There were no adverse events.

CONCLUSION

ICG-directed SLNB in children is a safe and effective alternative to blue dye. Use of ICG did not add to operative time, and more often identified sentinel nodes versus blue dye.

TYPE OF STUDY

Original Research Article, Retrospective Comparative Study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

A Pilot Study for Biliary Atresia Diagnosis: Fluorescent Imaging of Indocyanine Green in Stool

BACKGROUND

Biliary atresia is the most common cause of obstructive jaundice in infants and conventional cholangiography is the current diagnostic gold standard. Fluorescent cholangiography with indocyanine green can enhance biliary tree visualization during surgery because it is exclusively excreted into the bile ducts and eventually into the intestine. Therefore, we hypothesized that indocyanine green presence in stool could confirm bile duct patency in infants.

METHODS

A prospective single center cohort study was performed on infants (age ≤ 12 months) with and without jaundice after obtaining IRB approval. Indocyanine green was administered intravenously (0.1 mg/kg). Soiled diapers collected post-injection were imaged for fluorescence.

RESULTS

After indocyanine green administration, fluorescence was detected in soiled diapers for control patients (n = 4, x = 14 h22 m post-injection) and jaundiced patients without biliary atresia (n = 11, x = 13 h28 m post-injection). For biliary atresia patients (n = 7), post-injection soiled diapers before and after Kasai portoenterostomy were collected. Fluorescence was not detected in stool from 6 of 7 biliary atresia patients. As a test, indocyanine green detection in stool was 97% accurate for assessing biliary patency.

CONCLUSION

Fluorescent Imaging for Indocyanine Green (FIInd Green) in stool is a fast and accurate approach to assess biliary patency non-invasively in infants.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Utilization of Indocyanine Green (ICG) Fluorescence in Patients with Pediatric Colorectal Diseases: The Current Applications and Reported Outcomes

In pediatric colorectal surgery, achieving and visualizing adequate perfusion during complex reconstructive procedures are paramount to ensure postoperative success. However, intraoperative identification of proper perfusion remains a challeng. This review synthesizes findings from the literature spanning from January 2010 to March 2024, sourced from Medline/PubMed, EMBASE, and other databases, to evaluate the role of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging in enhancing surgical outcomes. Specifically, it explores the use of ICG in surgeries related to Hirschsprung disease, anorectal malformations, cloacal reconstructions, vaginal agenesis, bladder augmentation, and the construction of antegrade continence channels. Preliminary evidence suggests that ICG fluorescence significantly aids in intraoperative decision-making by improving the visualization of vascular networks and assessing tissue perfusion. Despite the limited number of studies, initial findings indicate that ICG may offer advantages over traditional clinical assessments for intestinal perfusion. Its application has demonstrated a promising safety profile in pediatric patients, underscoring the need for larger, prospective studies to validate these observations, quantify benefits, and further assess its impact on clinical outcomes. The potential of ICG to enhance pediatric colorectal surgery by providing real-time, accurate perfusion data could significantly improve surgical precision and patient recovery.

Indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence-enhanced applications in pediatric surgery

The breadth of pediatric surgical practice and variety of anatomic anomalies that characterize surgical disease in children and neonates require a unique level of operative mastery and versatility. Intraoperative navigation of small, complex, and often abnormal anatomy presents a particular challenge for pediatric surgeons. Clinical experience with fluorescent tissue dye, specifically indocyanine green (ICG), is quickly gaining widespread incorporation into adult surgical practice as a safe, non-toxic means of accurately visualizing tissue perfusion, lymphatic flow, and biliary anatomy to enhance operative speed, safety, and patient outcomes. Experience in pediatric surgery, however, remains limited. ICG-fluorescence guided surgery is poised to address the challenges of pediatric and neonatal operations for a growing breadth of surgical pathology. Fluorescent angiography has permitted intraoperative visualization of colorectal flap perfusion for complex pelvic reconstruction and anastomotic perfusion after esophageal atresia repair, while its hepatic absorption and biliary excretion has made it an excellent agent for delineating the dissection plane in the Kasai portoenterostomy and identifying both primary and metastatic hepatoblastoma lesions. Subcutaneous and intra-lymphatic ICG injection can identify iatrogenic chylous leaks and improved yields in sentinel lymph node biopsies. ICG-guided surgery holds promise for more widespread use in pediatric surgical conditions, and continued evaluation of efficacy will be necessary to better inform clinical practice and identify where to focus and develop this technical resource.

The Role of Indocyanine Green in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Surgery: Systematic Review

The use of near-infrared fluorescence imaging with indocyanine green (ICG) is actually considered as a very useful tool in decision-making strategy during challenging surgical procedures with a growing evidence in the literature. Our aim is to perform a systematic review focusing on ICG applications in gastrointestinal surgery. We conducted a systematic review with narrative synthesis in conformity with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines using PubMed, Medline, and EMBASE databases to identify articles describing the gastrointestinal perioperative use of ICG in children. We extracted data on study design, demographics, surgical indications, ICG dose, and perioperative outcomes. Eleven articles, including 94 pediatric patients, from 2013 to 2022 met the inclusion criteria for narrative synthesis in our systematic review, of which 6/11 (54.5%) were case reports, 4/11 (36.4%) were retrospective studies, and 1/11 (0.1%) were case series. Current clinical applications of ICG in gastrointestinal pediatric surgery included: esophagogastric surgery in 4/11 articles (36.4%), intestinal and pancreatic surgery in 3/11 articles (27.2%), and colorectal surgery in 4/11 articles (36.4%). ICG fluorescence in gastrointestinal pediatric surgery is a promising and safe technology that facilitates intraoperative localization of anatomical structures to achieve a more precise dissection and avoid injury to other adjacent tissues. It can be considered as a meaningful tool for assessing intestinal viability, as it provides objective data on tissue perfusion, and can impact the intraoperative decision in reconstructive surgeries requiring anastomosis. Future studies are needed to confirm these initial promising results. The lack of comparative and prospective studies is still the main limitation.

Fluorescent-guided surgery and the use of indocyanine green sentinel lymph node mapping in the pediatric and young adult oncology population

BACKGROUND

Technetium-99 (99m Tc) lymphoscintigraphy with blue dye injection is an accepted method for sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping, but blue dye has known adverse effects, and injection of 99m Tc may increase time under anesthesia for pediatric patients. Indocyanine green (ICG) may serve as an adjunct to assist with visibility and identification of SLNs. We hypothesized that sensitivity of ICG was similar to blue dye in SLN biopsies.

METHODS

Thirty patients (36 procedures with 96 total specimens) underwent preoperative intradermal injection of 99m Tc, followed by intradermal injection of isosulfan blue and ICG. Test characteristics of blue dye, ICG, and 99m Tc included sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV).

RESULTS

ICG had a sensitivity of 87% and PPV of 83% for detection of 99m Tc-hot lymph nodes; blue dye had a sensitivity of 44% and PPV of 97%. For detection of pathologically confirmed lymph nodes, ICG had a sensitivity of 84% and a positive predictive value (PPV) of 91%. 99m Tc had a sensitivity of 82% and a PPV of 94%. ICG had no significant difference in odds of being positive in pathology-confirmed lymph nodes compared to 99m Tc (odds ratio [OR], 0.818; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.3-2.172; p = .823) and had higher odds than isosulfan blue (OR, 0.025, 95% CI, 0.001-0.148; p < .001).

CONCLUSION

This study established the efficacy of ICG as an adjunct to SLNB in the pediatric and young adult population. ICG was safe, more efficacious than blue dye, and may obviate the need for lymphoscintigraphy in selected patients resulting in reduced time under anesthesia.

Progress in precision pediatric surgical oncology

The increasingly targeted and personalized care of pediatric solid tumors extends to the surgical realm. Enhancing sentinel lymph node biopsy with fluorescence‐guided surgery is one example of this innovation in pediatric surgical oncology.

Surgery in Bilateral Wilms Tumor-A Single-Center Experience

The treatment of bilateral Wilms tumors (BWT) involves curing the cancer, preserving long-term renal function, and maintaining a good quality of life. Established methods for achieving these goals include preoperative chemotherapy and nephron-sparing surgery (NSS). This study aimed to evaluate the experience of a single institution in treating patients with BWT. We analyzed cases of BWT treated at the Pediatric Oncology Institute-GRAACC-Federal University of São Paulo over a period of 35 years. Bleeding control was performed with manual compression of the renal parenchyma. Thirty-three patients were included in the study. Thirty cases were synchronous tumors. The mean age at diagnosis was 30.4 months (±22 m) and 66.7% were girls. The median follow-up period was 83 months. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was the primary approach in most patients (87.9%), with a simultaneous upfront surgical approach performed in 84.8%. Most patients underwent bilateral NSS (70.4%). There were no early complications in this series, but 39.4% had clinical complications. The five-year survival rate was 76%. Therefore, it is clear that the surgical approach to BWT plays a crucial role in achieving good outcomes. However, it is difficult to standardize surgical techniques and technology may have the potential to enhance safety.

Identification of Pediatric Tumors Intraoperatively Using Indocyanine Green (ICG)

BACKGROUND

Fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS) with indocyanine green (ICG) is increasingly applied in pediatric surgical oncology. However, FGS has been mostly reported in case studies of liver or renal tumors. Applying novel technologies in pediatric surgical oncology is more challenging than in adult surgical oncology due to differences in tumor histology, biology, and fewer cases. No consensus exists on ICG-guided FGS for surgically managing pediatric solid tumors. Therefore, we reviewed the literature and discuss the limitations and prospects of FGS.

METHODS

Using PRISMA guidelines, we analyzed articles on ICG-guided FGS for childhood solid tumors. Case reports, opinion articles, and narrative reviews were excluded.

RESULTS

Of the 108 articles analyzed, 17 (14 retrospective and 3 prospective) met the inclusion criteria. Most (70.6%) studies used ICG to identify liver tumors, but the timing and dose of ICG administered varied. Intraoperative outcomes, sensitivity and specificity, were reported in 23.5% of studies. Fluorescence-guided liver resections resulted in negative margins in 90-100% of cases; lung metastasis was detected in 33% of the studies. In otolaryngologic malignancies, positive margins without fluorescence signal were reported in 25% of cases. Overall, ICG appeared effective and safe for lymph node sampling and nephron-sparing procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite promising results from FGS, ICG use varies across the international pediatric surgical oncology community. Underreported intraoperative imaging outcomes and the diversity and rarity of childhood solid tumors hinder conclusive scientific evidence supporting adoption of ICG in pediatric surgical oncology. Further international collaborations are needed to study the applications and limitations of ICG in pediatric surgical oncology.

Critical elements of pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma surgery

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), the most common soft tissue sarcoma in children, requires multimodal therapy which is determined by risk group stratification. Local control may be achieved by surgical resection, radiation, or both. Resection may occur upfront or following induction chemotherapy as a delayed primary excision. An R1 resection may allow a reduction in radiation exposure; however, debulking is not indicated nor is excision of residual masses at the end of therapy. Regional lymph node assessment is an important component of surgical care, as positive nodal basins require radiation. Depending on the tumor site and biology, sentinel lymph node biopsy vs biopsy of clinically or radiographically concerning nodes is indicated. Therapeutic lymph node dissection is never indicated. Familiarity with site-specific oncologic principles for RMS and participation in a multidisciplinary team including Pediatric Oncology and Radiation Oncology are necessary components of surgical care to ensure optimal outcomes.

Feasibility of indocyanine green-guided localization of pulmonary nodules in children with solid tumors

BACKGROUND

Clearing all pulmonary metastases is essential for curing pediatric solid tumors. However, intraoperative localization of such pulmonary nodules can be challenging. Therefore, an intraoperative tool that localizes pulmonary metastases is needed to improve diagnostic and therapeutic resections. Indocyanine green (ICG) real-time fluorescence imaging is used for this purpose in adult solid tumors, but its utility in pediatric solid tumors has not been determined.

METHODS

A single-center, open-label, nonrandomized, prospective clinical trial (NCT04084067) was conducted to assess the ability of ICG to localize pulmonary metastases of pediatric solid tumors. Patients with pulmonary lesions who required resection, either for therapeutic or diagnostic intent, were included. Patients received a 15-minute intravenous infusion of ICG (1.5 mg/kg), and pulmonary metastasectomy was performed the following day. A near-infrared spectroscopy iridium system was optimized to detect ICG, and all procedures were photo-documented and recorded.

RESULTS

ICG-guided pulmonary metastasectomies were performed in 12 patients (median age: 10.5 years). A total of 79 nodules were visualized, 13 of which were not detected by preoperative imaging. Histologic examination confirmed the following histologies: hepatoblastoma (n = 3), osteosarcoma (n = 2), and one each of rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor, atypical cartilaginous tumor, neuroblastoma, adrenocortical carcinoma, and papillary thyroid carcinoma. ICG guidance failed to localize pulmonary metastases in five (42%) patients who had inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor, atypical cartilaginous tumor, neuroblastoma, adrenocortical carcinoma, or papillary thyroid carcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

ICG-guided identification of pulmonary nodules is not feasible for all pediatric solid tumors. However, it may localize most metastatic hepatic tumors and high-grade sarcomas in children.

Innovation versus Experimentation: An Application of Ethical Frameworks to the Acceptance of Fluorescence-Guided Pediatric Surgery

Innovation is essential to the advancement of the field of pediatric surgery. The natural skepticism toward new technologies in pediatrics leads to frequent confusion of surgical innovation and research. Using fluorescence-guided surgery as an archetype for this ethical discussion, we apply existing conceptual frameworks of surgical innovation to understand the distinction between innovation and experimentation, acknowledging the spectrum and "grey zone" in between. In this review, we discuss the role of Institutional Review Boards in evaluating surgical practice innovations, and the aspects of certain surgical innovations that are distinct from experimentation, including a thorough understanding of the risk profile, preexisting use in humans, and adaptation from related fields. Examining fluorescence-guided surgery through these existing frameworks as well as the concept of equipoise, we conclude that new applications of indocyanine green do not constitute human subjects research. Most importantly, this example gives practitioners a lens through which they may appraise potential surgical innovations to allow for a sensible and efficient improvement of the field of pediatric surgery. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: V.

Applications of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence technology in open surgery: preliminary experience in pediatric surgery

Background

Indocyanine green fluorescence technology (ICG) in pediatric minimally invasive surgery has undergone an important improvement in the last 5 years. However, its use in open surgery is still limited. In this paper, we aim to report our preliminary experience with Rubina® lens ICG fluorescence technology in combination with the IMAGE1 S™ system from KARL STORZ in open excision of masses in children.

Methods

The records of 18 patients undergoing open surgery for head, neck and thorax masses between September and November 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Rubina® lens ICG fluorescence technology system was used in all the cases. In 10 cases we adopted the holding arm system and in 8 cases the hand-held technique. Data about patients' demographics, surgery and outcomes were collected and analyzed through the following criteria: mass localization, intraoperative time (min), ICG administration (ml), intraoperative complications, postoperative complications.

Results

A total of 18 patients were operated: 4 thyroglossal duct cysts, 3 supraorbital cysts, 2 neck masses, 2 pre-auricular and 2 scalp cysts, 2 gynecomastias, 2 lymphangiomas, 1 nose mass. In all the cases, intralesional injection of 0.5-1 ml of ICG solution was performed peri-operatively. Mean operative time was 58.4 min (35-134 min). Postoperative complications included seroma formation in 2 cases. Surgical pathology reports confirmed complete mass excision in all the cases.

Conclusion

Based on our preliminary experience, ICG fluorescence guided surgery using Rubina® lens system was very helpful also in open surgery procedures. Rubina® lens system permits to have a very low complication rate, a time-saving surgery, a real time reliability of anatomic structures and an excellent clinical safety. In our experience, holding arm system seems more comfortable than hand-held system. However, further cases need to be performed to evaluate the exact role and to identify new indications of this technique in open pediatric surgical procedures.

Clinical application of indocyanine green fluorescence imaging navigation for pediatric renal cancer

Background

Indocyanine Green (ICG) fluorescence imaging has been widely used in the surgical treatment of adult renal cancers, but its application in pediatric renal cancers has rarely been reported. This study aims to summarize the experience of ICG fluorescence imaging in pediatric renal cancers and explores its safety and feasibility.

Methods

The clinical features, surgical information, ICG administration regimen, near infrared radiography data in vivo and ex vivo and pathological results of children with renal cancers using ICG navigation were analyzed and summarized.

Results

There were 7 cases of renal cancer, including 4 cases of Wilms tumor (WT), 1 case of malignant rhabdoid tumor of the kidney (MRTK) and 2 cases of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). By intraoperative intravenous injection of ICG from 2.5 to 5 mg (0.05-0.67 mg/kg), the tumors were visualized in 6 cases in vivo or ex vivo, and the tumor visualization failed in 1 case due to renal artery embolization before operation. By injecting 5 mg ICG into the normal renal tissue during the operation, 3 patients achieved fluorescent localization of sentinel lymph nodes. No ICG-related adverse reactions were found in any of the patients during or after operation.

Conclusions

ICG fluorescence imaging is safe and feasible for renal cancers in children. Intraoperative administration can achieve tumor and sentinel lymph node visualization which will facilitate the development of nephron sparing surgery (NSS). However, the technique is affected by ICG dose, anatomical conditions around the tumor, and renal blood flow. A proper dose of ICG and the complete removal of perirenal fat are helpful for the fluorescence imaging of the tumor. It has potential in the operation of renal cancer in children.

Exploring the Potential of Three-Dimensional Imaging, Printing, and Modeling in Pediatric Surgical Oncology: A New Era of Precision Surgery

Pediatric surgical oncology is a technically challenging field that relies on CT and MRI as the primary imaging tools for surgical planning. However, recent advances in 3D reconstructions, including Cinematic Rendering, Volume Rendering, 3D modeling, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and 3D printing, are increasingly being used to plan complex cases bringing new insights into pediatric tumors to guide therapeutic decisions and prognosis in different pediatric surgical oncology areas and locations including thoracic, brain, urology, and abdominal surgery. Despite this, challenges to their adoption remain, especially in soft tissue-based specialties such as pediatric surgical oncology. This work explores the main innovative imaging reconstruction techniques, 3D modeling technologies (CAD, VR, AR), and 3D printing applications through the analysis of three real cases of the most common and surgically challenging pediatric tumors: abdominal neuroblastoma, thoracic inlet neuroblastoma, and a bilateral Wilms tumor candidate for nephron-sparing surgery. The results demonstrate that these new imaging and modeling techniques offer a promising alternative for planning complex pediatric oncological cases. A comprehensive analysis of the advantages and limitations of each technique has been carried out to assist in choosing the optimal approach.

Fluorescence-guided surgery: National trends in adoption and application in pediatric surgery

BACKGROUND

Fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS) with indocyanine green (ICG) is a rapidly diffusing surgical innovation, but its utilization in pediatrics remains unknown. We present a cross-sectional descriptive analysis of trends from a national database.

METHODS

The Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) database was queried for patient encounters between January 2016 and July 2021 with an associated ICG administration within 3 days prior to surgery. All procedure codes from each encounter were reviewed by two surgeons to determine the most likely associated FGS procedure and assign an operative category.

RESULTS

1270 encounters were identified from 38 participating hospitals. The mean patient age (SD) was 8.3 (6.4) years, 54.5% were male, 63.8% were white, and 30.1% were Hispanic. The most common categories for ICG use were neurosurgery (21.3%), biliary (18.3%), perfusion (14.8%), urology (12.5%), gastrointestinal (10.8%), ophthalmology (8.8%), and thoracic (5.6%). Utilization over time increased for some categories (thoracic, visceral perfusion, and neurological procedures) or remained stable for other categories. Overall ICG utilization has increased in 2020 (n = 314) compared to 2016 (N = 83). The number of centers utilizing ICG has also increased from 14 hospitals in 2016 to 29 hospitals in 2020 though adoption remains unevenly distributed, with 5 high-utilization hospitals accounting for 56.8% of all ICG FGS cases.

CONCLUSION

ICG is being used across a wide variety of pediatric surgical disciplines. Trends over time show increasingly frequent adoption across the country, with a few high-volume centers driving the innovation. Fluorescence-guided surgery is commercially available and is becoming more commonplace for pediatric surgeons. Dedicated efforts will now be needed to assess outcomes using this promising technology.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

STUDY TYPE

Retrospective study.

Utilization of robotics in pediatric surgical oncology

Despite increasing implementation of robotic surgery and minimally invasive techniques within adult surgical oncology and pediatric general surgery, the utilization of robotic-assisted resections for pediatric tumors has been met with controversy. The robotic platform affords numerous advantages over conventional surgical techniques. However, limited data and guidelines regarding patient selection, indications for the robotic approach, and long-term oncologic outcomes have delayed the widespread adoption of robotic-assisted resection of pediatric tumors. This paper reviews the benefits, limitations, and existing guidelines and data regarding the utilization of robotics in pediatric surgical oncology.

Pediatric robotic surgery: An overview

Pediatric robotic surgery offers children a minimally invasive approach with numerous advantages over open or thoracoscopic and laparoscopic surgery. However, despite its widespread adoption for adult patients, the utilization of robotic surgery within pediatrics has been relatively slower to progress. This paper provides an overview of pediatric robotic surgery and discusses benefits, limitations, and strategies for successful implementation of robotics within pediatric surgical practice.

Applications of Indocyanine Green-Guided Near-Infrared Fluorescence Imaging in Pediatric Minimally Invasive Surgery Urology: A Narrative Review

Background: Indocyanine green (ICG) is a fluorescent dye used for several indications in adult surgery, and, more recently, adopted also in the pediatric patients. This study aimed to review the literature published on the use of ICG near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) in pediatric urology, to address its shortcomings and disadvantages and to detect the future perspectives. Materials and Methods: An electronic literature search of PubMed on all studies reporting use of ICG-NIRF in pediatrics was performed. We included only studies reporting ICG-NIRF application in minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for pediatric urology indications. Results: Forty-two articles reporting MIS procedures performed using ICG-NIRF in children were obtained, but only 15 studies that focused on urological applications of ICG-NIRF in children were included in this review. The included studies described use of ICG-NIRF for kidney malformations such as duplex system, kidney tumors, renal cysts, ureteral pathology, bladder malformations, varicocele, and lymph node sampling in tumors. The pediatric urological applications in which ICG-NIRF provided significant advantages included partial nephrectomy, lymphatics sparing varicocele repair, and oncological procedures. The ICG-NIRF use was clinically safe, without reported adverse systemic reactions in all pediatric series. The main drawback of this technology is the need of specific laparoscopic equipment such as camera system, light sources, and telescopes or the da Vinci Xi Robot, with the software for ICG-NIRF, Firefly^®, already integrated within. Conclusions: ICG-enhanced fluorescence-guided surgery is gaining growing popularity among pediatric surgeons due to the excellent results that have been published until now. ICG-NIRF technology has proven to be safe, easy to use, not time-consuming, cheap, and very effective to improve intraoperative view and surgical ability. Nonetheless, further evidence, including larger series, longer follow-up, and more specific assessments, is necessary to confirm the preliminary results and enlarge the applications.

Indocyanine green fluorescence imaging as an adjunct for the localization of a bile leak after split liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

The intraoperative identification of a bile leak after liver transplantation can be challenging, especially when using technical variant grafts. Possible sources of leakage include the sometimes multiple biliary anastomoses or orphan ducts leading to cut surface leak. Preoperative imaging is often unable to precisely identify the location of the leak. Indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging has been utilized in adult hepatobiliary and transplant surgery, but not for the management of postoperative biliary complications.

METHODS

We present a case where ICG fluorescence imaging was used to identify a cut surface bile leak after pediatric split liver transplantation.

RESULTS

A 5-year-old girl with methylmalonic acidemia underwent a left lobe split liver transplantation. A single Roux-en-Y choledochojejunostomy was performed. Nine days after transplant, bile was noted in the surgical drain. Imaging confirmed the patency of the hepatic artery and the absence of intraabdominal collection. A hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid scan showed the majority of radiotracer was excreted through the surgical drain. The patient was explored surgically: 4.5× loupe magnification did not allow for the localization of the leak. ICG was administered intravenously, after which a cut surface bile leak could be identified and repaired. There was no recurrence of bile leak after repair. Eighteen months after transplant, the patient is alive and well and has not suffered from any additional biliary complications.

CONCLUSION

Indocyanine green constitutes an additional tool in the arsenal of measures available to facilitate the intraoperative detection and management of bile leaks occurring after pediatric technical variant graft transplant.

Intraoperative evaluation of testicular vascularization and perfusion in rat testicles with indocyanine green (ICG)/near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent imaging after torsion-detorsion and reperfusion

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to evaluate testicular perfusion and vascularization with intraoperative ICG/NIR imaging in a testicular ischemia-reperfusion model and to investigate the effects of ICG on testicular tissue.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

24 male rats were divided into four groups. In the ICG group, only ICG was given and images of the testicles were recorded with NIR camera. In the torsion group, the testicles were left in torsion for 4 h. ICG/NIR images were obtained after torsion and detorsion. In the reperfusion group, ICG/NIR images of the testicles were obtained at the 4^th hour of reperfusion. After the procedures, testicles were collected and evaluated with histological, immunohistochemical examination and qRT-PCR.

RESULTS

There was no histologically negative effect of ICG on testicular tissue. There was no testicular perfusion in the torsion group, but perfusion started after detorsion. At the 4th hour of reperfusion, testicular perfusion continued. TNF-a, IL-6, MCP-1 and caspase-3 immunoreactivity were found to be at low levels in the control and ICG groups, while high in the torsion and reperfusion groups (p < 0.05). In qRT-PCR, TNF-a, IL-6, MCP-1 and caspase-3 expressions were lower in the control and ICG groups, but higher in the torsion and reperfusion groups.

CONCLUSION

There was no histologically negative effect of ICG on testicles. The ICG/NIR imaging technique seems to be a feasible method in testicular torsion and may contribute to the surgeon in the intraoperative management of testicular torsion. In testicles that started to be perfused after detorsion, perfusion still continued at the 4th hour of reperfusion. Our next goal is to test whether testicles showing ICG fluorescence in during reperfusion maintain their viability for long term.

Qualitative features of esophageal fluorescence angiography and anastomotic outcomes in children

BACKGROUND

Indocyanine green (ICG) is commonly used to assess perfusion, but quality defining features are lacking. We sought to establish qualitative features of esophageal ICG perfusion assessments, and develop an esophageal anastomotic scorecard to risk-stratify anastomotic outcomes.

METHODS

Single institution, retrospective analysis of children with an intraoperative ICG perfusion assessment of an esophageal anastomosis. Qualitative perfusion features were defined and a perfusion score developed. Associations between perfusion and clinical features with poor anastomotic outcomes (PAO, leak or refractory stricture) were evaluated with logistic and time-to-event analyses. Combining significant features, we developed and tested an esophageal anastomotic scorecard to stratify PAO risk.

RESULTS

From 2019 to 2021, 53 children (median age 7.4 months) underwent 55 esophageal anastomoses. Median (IQR) follow-up was 14 (10-19.9) months; mean (SD) perfusion score was 13.2 (3.4). Fifteen (27.3%) anastomoses experienced a PAO and had significantly lower mean perfusion scores (11.3 (3.3) vs 14.0 (3.2), p = 0.007). Unique ICG perfusion features, severe tension, and primary or rescue traction-induced esophageal lengthening [Foker] procedures were significantly associated with PAO on both logistic and Cox regression. The scorecard (range 0-7) included any Foker (+2), severe tension (+1), no arborization on either segment (+1), suture line hypoperfusion >twice expected width (+2), and segmental or global areas of hypoperfusion (+1). A scorecard cut-off >3 yielded a sensitivity of 73% and specificity of 93% (AUC 0.878 [95%CI 0.777 to 0.978]) in identifying a PAO.

CONCLUSIONS

A scoring system comprised of qualitative ICG perfusion features, tissue quality, and anastomotic tension can help risk-stratify esophageal anastomotic outcomes accurately.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE

Diagnostic - II.

Advocating for the surgical needs of children with cancer

Outcomes have improved significantly over the last 60 years for children with cancer. However, one consequence of improved survival is that many patients are now living with the long-term consequences of therapy. Pediatric surgeons can impact both the oncologic outcomes and morbidities of therapy. Therefore, it is incumbent upon us to be considerate, informed, and introspective about what we do as surgeons.

The Impact of Indocyanine Green Angiography on Fat Necrosis in Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap Breast Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

The deep inferior epigastric perforator flap (DIEP) is a widely known reliable option for autologous breast reconstruction. One common complication of DIEP procedures is fat necrosis. Consequences of fat necrosis include wound healing complications, pain, infection, and the psychological distress of possible cancerous recurrence. Clinical judgment alone is an imperfect method to detect at-risk segments of adipose tissue. Objective methods to assess perfusion may improve fat necrosis complication rates, reducing additional surgeries to exclude cancer and improve cosmesis for patients.

METHODS

The authors performed a retrospective review of patients who underwent analysis of DIEP flap vascularity with or without intraoperative indocyanine green angiography (ICGA). Flap perfusion was assessed using intravenous ICGA and was quantified with both relative and absolute value units of fluorescence. Tissue with observed values less than 25% to 30% relative value units was resected. Postoperative outcomes and fat necrosis incidence were collected.

RESULTS

Three hundred fifty-five DIEP flaps were included in the study, 187 (52.7%) of which were assessed intraoperatively with ICGA. Thirty-nine patients (10.9%) experienced operable fat necrosis. No statistically significant difference in incidence of postoperative fat necrosis was found between the 2 groups (P = 0.732). However, a statistically significant relationship was found between fat necrosis incidence and body mass index as both a continuum (P = 0.001) and when categorized as greater than 35 (P = 0.038).

CONCLUSIONS

Although ICGA is useful for a variety of plastic surgery procedures, our retrospective review did not show a reduction in operable fat necrosis when using this technology.

Indocyanine Green (ICG)-Guided Identification of Hypermetabolic Pancreatic Nodules in Focal Congenital Hyperinsulinism: A Case Report in a 3-Month-Old Infant

Indocyanine green (ICG)-guided near-infrared fluorescence has been recently adopted in pediatric surgery, although its use in the treatment of congenital hyperinsulinism has not been reported. We present a case of focal congenital hyperinsulinism in which ICG-navigation with ICG was used during surgical treatment. A 3-month-old infant was referred to our institution from a peripheral hospital for episodes of persistent hypoglycemia since birth, with no response to intravenous treatment with diazoxide, octreotide, or hydrochlorothiazide. An abdominal positron emission tomography-computed tomography scan showed a hypermetabolic nodule in the proximal portion of the body of the pancreas, compatible with focal congenital hyperinsulinism. A heterozygous mutation in the ABCC gene (Ala1516Glyfs*19) frameshift type inherited from the father was identified, which supported this diagnosis. Laparoscopy-assisted surgery was performed with ICG-guided near-infrared fluorescence, with intravenous injection of 16 mg ICG (2 mg/mg), which allowed localization of the focal lesion in the body of the pancreas. The lesion was resected with bipolar electrocautery and intraoperative histological study confirmed complete resection. Plasma glucose values normalized 6 hours after surgery and the patient was discharged 5 days later. In conclusion, the use of ICG in the treatment of congenital hyperinsulinism helps to identify hypermetabolic pancreatic nodules, decreasing the likelihood of incomplete resection.

Tumor-Background Ratio is an effective method to identify tumors and false-positive nodules in indocyanine-green navigation surgery for pediatric liver cancer

BACKGROUND

Indocyanine green (ICG) navigation surgery has been used for hepatoblastoma (HB) in children but the technique has been reported for using in other childhood liver cancers were rare. This article summarizes the application experience of ICG in HB and other childhood liver cancers in children and explores the role of fluorescence intensity measurement in identifying tumors.

METHODS

To summarize the clinical experience of children with liver cancer treated by ICG navigation surgery. The tumor and its surrounding tissue were photographed by near infrared during the operation. The fluorescence intensity of tumors, ICG (+) lesions and the normal liver was measured, and the Tumor-Background Ratio (TBR) was calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 11 children with liver cancer were injected intravenously with ICG 1 day before operation. With the help of ICG fluorescence navigation, there was no residual tumor at the surgical margin for all the children. Total fluorescence was seen in 2 cases, rim fluorescence in 2 cases, and partial fluorescence in 7 cases. 19 ICG false-positive nodules were found on the resection stump or residual liver tissue in 5 cases, and the TBR value of tumors was higher than that of false- positive nodules. 10 children have survived without disease.

CONCLUSION

ICG navigation surgery is safe and feasible for liver cancer in children, which can enhance the visualization of the tumor during operation and provide more information about the location and boundaries of the tumor. This technique also has limitations, which can be affected by chemotherapy, tumor location, ICG administration regimen, and equipment. TBR is an effective method to identify tumor and non-cancerous lesions.

Image-guided surgery and novel intraoperative devices for enhanced visualisation in general and paediatric surgery: a review

Fluorescence guided surgery, augmented reality, and intra-operative imaging devices are rapidly pervading the field of surgical interventions, equipping the surgeon with powerful tools capable of enhancing the surgical visualisation of anatomical normal and pathological structures. There is a wide range of possibilities in the adult population to use these novel technologies and devices in the guidance for surgical procedures and minimally invasive surgeries. Their applications and their use have also been increasingly growing in the field of paediatric surgery, where the detailed visualisation of small anatomical structures could reduce procedure time, minimising surgical complications and ultimately improve the outcome of surgery. This review aims to illustrate the mechanisms underlying these innovations and their main applications in the clinical setting.

Introducing Fluorescence-Guided Surgery for Pediatric Ewing, Osteo-, and Rhabdomyosarcomas: A Literature Review

Sarcomas are a rare heterogeneous group of malignant neoplasms of mesenchymal origin which represent approximately 13% of all cancers in pediatric patients. The most prevalent pediatric bone sarcomas are osteosarcoma (OS) and Ewing sarcoma (ES). Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most frequently occurring pediatric soft tissue sarcoma. The median age of OS and ES is approximately 17 years, so this disease is also commonly seen in adults while non-pleiomorphic RMS is rare in the adult population. The mainstay of all treatment regimens is multimodal treatment containing chemotherapy, surgical resection, and sometimes (neo)adjuvant radiotherapy. A clear resection margin improves both local control and overall survival and should be the goal during surgery with a curative intent. Real-time intraoperative fluorescence-guided imaging could facilitate complete resections by visualizing tumor tissue during surgery. This review evaluates whether non-targeted and targeted fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS) could be beneficial for pediatric OS, ES, and RMS patients. Necessities for clinical implementation, current literature, and the positive as well as negative aspects of non-targeted FGS using the NIR dye Indocyanine Green (ICG) were evaluated. In addition, we provide an overview of targets that could potentially be used for FGS in OS, ES, and RMS. Then, due to the time- and cost-efficient translational perspective, we elaborate on the use of antibody-based tracers as well as their disadvantages and alternatives. Finally, we conclude with recommendations for the experiments needed before FGS can be implemented for pediatric OS, ES, and RMS patients.

The Use of Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Angiography in Pediatric Surgery: A Systematic Review and Narrative Analysis

Purpose: Indocyanine green fluorescence angiography (ICG-FA) is a validated non-invasive imaging technique used to assess tissue vascularization and guide intraoperative decisions in many surgical fields including plastic surgery, neurosurgery, and general surgery. While this technology is well-established in adult surgery, it remains sparsely used in pediatric surgery. Our aim was to systematically review and provide an overview of all available evidence on the perioperative use of indocyanine green fluorescence angiography in pediatric surgical patients. Methods: We conducted a systematic review with narrative synthesis in conformity with the PRISMA guidelines using PubMed, Medline, All EBM Reviews, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and CINAHL COMPLETE databases to identify articles describing the perioperative use of ICG-FA in pediatric patients. Two independent authors screened all included articles for eligibility and inclusion criteria. We extracted data on study design, demographics, surgical indications, indocyanine green dose, and perioperative outcomes. We developed a risk of bias assessment tool to evaluate the methodological quality of included studies. Results: Of 1,031 articles retrieved, a total of 64 articles published between 2003 and 2020 were included reporting on 664 pediatric patients. Most articles were case reports and case series (n = 36; 56%). No adverse events related to ICG-FA were reported in the included articles. Risk of bias was high. We did not conduct a meta-analysis given the heterogeneous nature of the populations, interventions, and outcome measures. A narrative synthesis is presented. Conclusion: Indocyanine green fluorescence angiography is a safe imaging technology and its use is increasing rapidly in pediatric surgical specialties. However, the quality of evidence supporting this trend currently appears low. Case-control and randomized trials are needed to determine the adequate pediatric dose and to confirm the potential benefits of ICG-FA in pediatric surgical patients. Systematic Review Registration: This study was registered on Prospero a priori, identifier: CRD42020151981.