Use of Ultrasmall Core-Shell Fluorescent Silica Nanoparticles for Image-Guided Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Head and Neck Melanoma

Abstract

Key Points Question Can the favorable properties of an ultrasmall fluorescent core-shell silica nanoparticle aid real-time image-guided detection, localization, and surgical management of sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) in patients with head and neck melanoma? Findings In this nonrandomized clinical trial of 24 patients, real-time, particle-based fluorescence imaging of SLNs was feasible and safe at the microdosing level and enabled deep-tissue nodal detection. There was high concordance in identifying nodes between preoperative lymphoscintigraphy and particle-based fluorescence-guided biopsy. Meaning The findings of this study suggest that ultrabright, optical contrast–conferring particles for SLN identification hold promise for overcoming current probe limitations and improving surgical outcomes.