SPY Elite imaging uses an injectable fluorescing agent to intraoperatively assess the perfusion and viability of tissue, including skin flaps, during post-mastectomy reconstruction for breast cancer patients.
We evaluated the patient preoperatively and also used intraoperative SPY imaging (intraoperative laser angiography) to ensure adequate perfusion of the mastectomy flaps prior to engaging in single stage reconstruction.
Intraoperative laser angiography using indocyanine green (ICG) is a vascular imaging methodology that can be used in the intraoperative or postoperative setting to visually assess superficial blood flow.
Characteristics of ICG angiography make it a desirable option for tissue evaluation. The technique provides real-time assessment of tissue perfusion that has been correlated with clinical outcomes and guides surgical decision making, such as flap design or intraoperative tissue resection. ICG has an excellent safety profile and short plasma half-life, allowing for repeat evaluations during the same operative procedure.
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Please note: These are my individual patients who have provided written photo consent. These photos and posts do not constitute medical advice. Results may vary. See a board certified plastic surgeon for evaluation.
