Recent data from The American Cancer Society reveals a concerning trend – breast cancer diagnoses continue to surge, with an annual increase of 0.5%. This equates to over 297,000 new diagnoses each year, underscoring the urgent need for advancements in breast cancer treatment and surgery. In response to this pressing challenge, Stryker, a global leader in medical technology, has embarked on a mission to collaborate with clinicians and develop groundbreaking solutions for breast cancer patients.
The SPY-PHI: Illuminating the Path to Progress
Stryker’s latest innovation, the SPY Portable Handheld Imager (SPY-PHI), has long been an indispensable tool in plastic, microsurgical, reconstructive, and gastrointestinal procedures. Now, it has earned clearance for use in breast cancer surgery, heralding a new era of precision and visualization in the operating room. The device harnesses the power of ‘near-infrared fluorescence imaging technology,’ offering surgeons an unprecedented view of lymph nodes within breast tissue during surgical procedures.
Brent Ladd, President of Stryker’s Endoscopy Business, emphasizes the personal connection that drives their dedication to improving breast cancer surgery outcomes. He states, “Everyone knows someone who’s had breast cancer or is currently fighting the disease. When we spoke to surgeons, we learned that they wanted to see more of the anatomy during breast cancer surgery, specifically through lymphatic mapping. The SPY device represents a pivotal advancement in breast cancer treatment, working synergistically with Stryker’s SPY AGENT GREEN. It enables surgeons to visualize and pinpoint the sentinel lymph node, offering crucial insights that may inform decisions about the necessity of more invasive breast surgery.”
Reducing Complications, Enhancing Quality of Life on Breast Cancer
One of the significant benefits of the SPY device lies in its ability to guide surgeons in the precise removal of lymph nodes, helping to avoid the unnecessary extraction of too many nodes. The removal of excessive lymph nodes has been associated with potential postoperative complications, significantly impacting the quality of life for breast cancer patients. These complications may manifest as lymphedema, shoulder and arm dysfunction, and seroma formation. With SPY-PHI, surgeons can make informed decisions that reduce the risk of such complications and enhance the overall well-being of patients.
Brent Ladd emphasizes the profound impact of their work, saying, “To know that the use of SPY may help a surgeon improve outcomes means that someone’s friend, sister, mom, or grandmother can look forward to more time with those they love. That’s what our work is all about.”
The introduction of the SPY-PHI device into breast cancer surgery not only signifies a significant leap forward in medical technology but also a ray of hope for those affected by this pervasive disease. As the number of breast cancer diagnoses continues to climb, innovative solutions like SPY-PHI illuminate a path towards improved surgical precision, reduced complications, and ultimately, better quality of life for patients.
Resource: Stryker, November 27, 2023
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