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Abstract
Objective: This clinical trial aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of quantum dot (QD) imaging in providing real-time visualization of tumor margins during breast cancer surgery, with a focus on improving surgical outcomes, reducing recurrence rates, and enhancing the accuracy of margin assessment.
Methods: A cohort of 120 breast cancer patients, who underwent tumor resection at a tertiary hospital in the southern region of Pakistan, were enrolled in this study. Patients were randomly assigned to either a control group (standard surgical procedure) or the experimental group (intraoperative QD imaging-guided surgery). Quantum dots conjugated with specific tumor-targeting antibodies were administered intravenously to the experimental group prior to surgery. Intraoperative QD fluorescence imaging was used to identify tumor margins and ensure complete excision of malignant tissue. The primary outcomes measured were the success rate of margin clearance, recurrence rates, and post-operative complications. Secondary outcomes included the time spent on the surgery and the level of surgeon satisfaction.
Results: The QD imaging group exhibited a significantly higher rate of negative surgical margins (p<0.05) compared to the control group. Additionally, the recurrence rates were markedly lower in the QD group over a 12-month follow-up period. Surgeons reported improved confidence in tumor margin identification, and the overall surgical time was comparable between the two groups. There were no significant differences in post-operative complications between the two groups.
Conclusion: Quantum dot imaging proved to be a promising technique in real-time tumor margin detection during breast cancer surgeries. This method could potentially reduce the rates of margin positivity and recurrence, contributing to better patient outcomes. Further multi-center studies are recommended to confirm the generalizability and long-term benefits of QD-guided surgery in breast cancer treatment.