Intraoperative exploration of biliary anatomy using fluorescence imaging of indocyanine green in experimental and clinical cholecystectomies

Abstract

This method is safe and easy for the identification of the biliary anatomy, without requiring cannulation into the cystic duct, X-ray equipment, or the use of radioactive materials. Although fluorescence imaging is still at an early stage of application in comparison with ordinary intraoperative cholangiography, we expect that this method will become routine, offering a lower degree of invasiveness that will help avoid bile duct injury.