INTRAOPERATIVE ELECTROMAGNETIC APPARATUS AND RELATED TECHNOLOGY

摘要

An apparatus capable of applying a first electromagnetic signal, e.g. an optical signal, to a tissue portion is described. The apparatus is also capable of applying a second electromagnetic signal from a different portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, e.g. a microwave signal, to the tissue portion. Signals returned from the tissue portion and related to the first electromagnetic signal are analysed to give a first evaluation of the physical and biophysical characteristics of the tissue portion. Signals returned from the tissue portion and related to the second electromagnetic signal are also analysed, and a final evaluation of the physical and biophysical characteristics of the tissue portion is produced, informed by the first evaluation and the analysed second signal. In this way the apparatus may be used to provide real time or near-real time diagnosis of the functional and morphological status of tissue, thereby empowering precision tissue resections and guiding appropriate intraoperative adjunct therapy and/or ablation.