Gamma Detection in Surgery
Gamma detection is a technique used to identify and measure gamma radiation emitted by radioisotopes within the body. It plays a pivotal role in sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) by locating lymph nodes that have absorbed radioactive tracers, helping to determine cancer staging and guide surgical decisions. Similarly, in parathyroid surgery, gamma detection aids in identifying hyperfunctioning parathyroid glands marked by radioactive tracers, ensuring targeted removal and improved surgical outcomes.
Applications of Gamma Detection – SLNB & Beyond
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
Locates the first node draining a tumor, aiding staging in breast cancer and melanoma.
Thyroid & Parathyroid Diseases
Detects residual or metastatic thyroid tissue during radio guided procedures.
Head & Neck Cancers
Identifies sentinel nodes near tumors for precise staging and minimal access.
Parathyroid Surgery
Targets hyperactive glands for accurate surgical excision.
Other Applications
Used in GI, gyn, lung cancers, lesion localization, and neuroendocrine surgeries.
Benefits of Gamma Detection
Gamma-guided surgery results in more accurate and less unnecessary surgeries, better pathology outcomes, and potentially improved patient survival1 . The three-point counting principle (in-vivo, ex-vivo, and bed of resection counts) ensures thorough removal of radioactive tissues.2
What Makes a Good Gamma Probe?
When it comes to guiding critical decisions in gamma surgery, the quality of your gamma probe can make all the difference. A truly effective probe is designed with several key features that enhance precision and reliability during surgery. So, what defines a great gamma probe?
High Sensitivity
A top-tier gamma probe ensures you can detect even the smallest traces of radiation from the sentinel lymph node. High sensitivity is crucial to ensure accurate identification, even in challenging cases where tracer uptake is low, or nodes are deeply embedded.1
Precise Spatial Resolution
Precision is everything. Gamma probes must have excellent spatial resolution to differentiate closely located nodes.The best probes offer lateral sensitivity in dense areas, ensuring accurate localization and reducing the chance of misidentification.1,2
Clear Energy Resolution
Energy resolution separates the critical signals from the surrounding noise. By discriminating between primary photons and scatter radiation, a good gamma probe delivers cleaner, more accurate readings even in high-background areas like breast cancer or melanoma.1,3
Effective Shielding and Collimation
Superior shielding prevents interference from nearby radiation sources, while collimation improves focus and reduces unwanted signals. This ensures that the probe only picks up the desired signals, providing clear directionality during surgery.1
Ergonomics for Seamless Integration
The design of the gamma probe matters just as much as its performance. Lightweight, ergonomic, and easy to handle, a great probe helps surgeons stay focused on the task at hand. Features like adjustable time constants, audible signals, and clear digital displays support efficient, real-time decision-making.1,3
Versatility Across Applications
A high-performing gamma probe should be versatile enough to handle various radionuclides and surgical procedures, whether for sentinel lymph node biopsy or tumor detection. Adaptability is key to its long-term value in the operating room.3
Is your system reaching End of Life?
In the operating room you don't want anything holding you back. Can your probe keep up without sacrificing accuracy? It might be time for an upgrade to The GammPRO Wireless Gamma Detection System.
Contact us today to learn more or request a demo of the GammaPRO system.
References
- H. Wengenmair et al., "Gamma Probes for Sentinel Node Localization: Quality Criteria, Minimal Requirements and Quality of Commercially Available Systems," 2005.
- M. Zamburlini et al., "Comparison of Sentinel Gamma Probes for Breast Cancer Surgery Based on NEMA NU3-2004 Standard," 2009.
- S. P. Povoski et al., "A Comprehensive Overview of Radioguided Surgery Using Gamma Detection Probe Technology," World Journal of Surgical Oncology, 2009