A miniaturized endoscopic device integrating Raman spectroscopy and laser speckle technology via an image fusion algorithm for intraoperative identification and functional protection of parathyroid glands

Thyroid surgeons have increasingly emphasized functional protection in thyroid surgery, including the hot and difficult issue of intraoperative identification and functional protection of parathyroid glands. Intraoperative parathyroid imaging methods can identify parathyroid glands to some extent, but they have limitations in cases where contrast agents are used preoperatively or frozen sections are used postoperatively.This paper presents the design and validation of a miniaturized and integrated all-in-one parathyroid-specific lumenscope. The device integrates Raman spectroscopy and laser scattering technology and utilizes algorithms to locate the parathyroid glands. Its purpose is to provide real-time protection of the parathyroid glands without the need for dye-based tissue identification. The device comprises two distinct parts: the mechanics of the cavity lens used for surgical operations and the design of the software system that fuses the image signals. It has been validated in ex vivo tissue experiments and preliminary clinical trials to enable miniaturization and integration of visual fluorescence localization techniques. The device aims to achieve objective, safe, accurate, and convenient parathyroid function protection.