New method helps detect brain tumors without contrast agents 06.08.2025
ICCAS employees Anne-Katrin Pfahl and Hannes Köhler, together with an interdisciplinary team, have published a new study on the more precise detection of brain tumor tissue during surgery. The results have been published in the current issue of the journal Neurosurgical Focus (Vol. 59, Issue 2, August 2025). Link: https://doi.org/10.3171/2025.5.FOCUS25333
The aim of the study was to use hyperspectral imaging (HSI) in combination with special MRI data (known as FLAIR sequences) to visualize tissue changes that are difficult to detect using conventional methods – without the use of contrast agents. The hyperspectral camera provides a detailed “color profile” of the tissue, which allows conclusions to be drawn about the water content and thus possible tumor activity.
As part of the study, tissue areas were analyzed with HSI during surgery in 15 patients. A specific measurement, known as the tissue water index (TWI), proved to be a reliable indicator of abnormal FLAIR signals in MRI. These signals, in turn, indicate possible tumor areas that cannot be visualized in the image using contrast agents. The results show promising accuracy in distinguishing between healthy and altered tissue.
The study impressively demonstrates how modern imaging technologies such as HSI can help to better detect brain tumors in the operating room—for the benefit of patients and as a valuable decision-making aid for the surgical team. The close integration of medical technology research and clinical application is exemplary of the work carried out at ICCAS.
