An ICG (Indocyanine Green) injection involves administering a medical dye that helps doctors visualize and treat problems in specific body parts. This dye changes the way these parts appear under special light, making them easier to see.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
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What it is: ICG is a fluorescent dye used in medical imaging. After being injected, it binds rapidly to plasma proteins and remains confined to the bloodstream.
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How it works: When illuminated with near-infrared (NIR) light, ICG fluoresces. This fluorescence can be detected by special cameras and used to create images of blood vessels, tissues, and organs.
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Why it's used: ICG is used to enhance the visualization of various structures during surgery and diagnostic procedures. This allows surgeons to better identify tumors, blood vessels, and other critical anatomical features.
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Examples of Applications:
- Ophthalmology: To visualize blood vessels in the retina and choroid (a layer of blood vessels in the eye).
- Surgery: To guide surgical procedures, particularly in liver, gastrointestinal, and lymphatic surgeries. It can help identify tumors, assess blood flow to tissues, and map lymphatic drainage.
- Cardiology: To assess cardiac output and liver function.
- Research: ICG is also used in various research applications, such as studying drug delivery and monitoring tissue perfusion.
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Benefits: ICG imaging is minimally invasive, real-time, and provides high-resolution images.
In summary, an ICG injection delivers a special dye that, when used with appropriate imaging equipment, allows medical professionals to see structures and processes within the body more clearly, aiding in diagnosis and treatment.
