Oncology

In Boston, medical researchers affiliated with CIMIT, Mass General, and Brigham and Womens Hospital are now completing a Phase II National Cancer Institute grant with Ascension sensors for laparoscopic navigation. The team is developing a new imaging and computer-based navigation system for inserting therapeutic probes in the central duct of the pancreas, a vital organ located deep in the body. Because the pancreas is not easily accessible, years of training are now necessary to perform this procedure; the new system will make this easier and safer while providing better treatments for pancreatic and other soft organ diseases.

The long-term objective is to enhance the efficacy and reduce the morbidity of invasive procedures in the abdomen with improved image-based information. NCI funding will advance three-dimensional, real-time visualization of laparoscopic tools integrated with pre-acquired images.