Application of indocyanine green fluorescence imaging in colorectal cancer surgery

Indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging has been widely used in surgery. In colorectal surgery specifically, more and more studies have shown that intraoperative fluorescence imaging is a safe and feasible method to assess anastomotic perfusion, and its use may decrease the incidence of anastomotic leakage. Meanwhile, indocyanine green can also be used to mark the location of lesion, identify sentinel lymph nodes, protect the ureter, and so on. It can also provide detection and guidance in the operation of peritoneal metastasis and liver metastasis of colorectal cancer. The application of indocyanine green fluorescence imaging can offer great value for surgery through improving the accuracy and outcomes of oncological resections. According to existing studies, we are still at an early application stage of indocyanine green fluorescence imaging technology in colorectal surgery. Lacking prospective randomized controlled studies, neither standards nor guidelines for injection dosage, site and observation period are satisfactory. Therefore, deep researches and establishment of standardized operational procedure are required to enhance the safety and accuracy of tumor resection and improve outcomes.