Fluorescence guidance for surgical resection of cancerous tissue is a rapidly growing field, providing real time guidance with molecular or vascular flow specificity. System calibration and performance validation is generally performed on an ad hoc basis and largely driven by manufacturers choices to minimize up-front cost, yet is entirely necessary as more manufacturers are approved. QUEL Imaging has developed methods for rapid production of tissue-simulating phantoms with controlled optical properties and fluorescence inclusions. Leveraging previous production experience, these surgical phantoms will be further developed to directly mimic both shape and function of organ sites commonly treated with surgical resection. Additionally, as fluorescence contrast is often administered intravenously and is dynamic in nature, phantoms with flow channels will be developed to better estimate the sensitivity and depth resolution of contrast agents in arterioles and small vessels. Finally, a computational match to each phantom will be developed to provide validated properties and the ability of users to verify signals based upon theoretical knowledge of their custom optical properties within the complex multi-layer tissue models. These customizable tools will bring cohesion and improved quality metrics to system developers by providing a simplified mechanism for companies and users to investigate capabilities and compare performance.
