Hyperspectral imaging for tumor resection guidance in surgery: a systematic review of preclinical and clinical studies
Antonio Composto, Laura Privitera, Martina Riva, Benedetto Ardini, Cristian Manzoni, Marco Riva, Kristian Aquilina, Gianluca Valentini, Stefano Giuliani
Abstract
Significance: Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) is a promising real-time, non-invasive, non-ionizing optical imaging technique. In surgical oncology, HSI can capture both structural and functional tissue information, allowing the characterization of tumor lesions both intraoperatively and on a histopathological level. Aim: We review the latest technological and clinical advancements of HSI as a guidance tool for tumor resection. Approach: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science using logical keyword combinations related to "hyperspectral imaging" and "surgical oncology." Eighty-five articles published between January 1, 2014, and April 30, 2024, were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Technical and clinical data were extracted and analyzed. Results: settings, with its most valuable application being tumor tissue delineation. Conclusions: HSI remains in its early technological stages, requiring high-quality evidence and multidisciplinary collaboration to support clinical adoption. A deeper understanding and improved characterization of biological tissue hyperspectral properties are essential to better inform and orient future hardware and software designs.