BME Colloquium: Stephen Bopart, M.D., Ph.D.

Optical Coherence Imaging and Guided Interventions in Breast Cancer: Translating Technology into Clinical Applications

Abstract

The use of optics in breast cancer has included techniques for optical mammography and spectroscopic measurements for identifying potential tissue changes. Traditionally, the clinical optical microscopic evaluation and diagnosis of tissue biopsy specimens has occurred remote from the point-of-care, since tissue processing, sectioning, and staining must be performed. New optical imaging techniques, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), enable real-time intra-operative visualization of breast tissue architecture at cellular resolutions, with the potential to perform needle-guided biopsies and volumetric microscopy with computer-automated classification. OCT has been used intra-operatively to assess margin status of lumpectomy specimens, and to assess lymph nodes for evidence of metastases. Fiber-optic beam delivery within needle probes facilitates guiding needle biopsies of breast masses. Recent efforts have worked to overcome some of the challenges associated with translating technological innovations into clinical applications. These methods enable real-time, point-of-care feedback during surgical procedures and interventions in the treatment of breast cancer, and represent potential changes in the diagnostic and interventional approaches to this disease.