The SURF trial: Optimizing Surgical excision Using Real-time Fluorescence imaging with indocyanine green
The SURF trial is looking into a new technique to help surgeons better identify and remove cancerous tissue during an operation. This study involves giving patients a harmless dye called indocyanine green, which is designed to make cancer cells glow when viewed with a special camera. The main goal is to see if this glow helps doctors find all the cancer cells, ensuring that the edges of the removed tissue, known as margins, are free of cancer. This could mean fewer cancer cells left behind and potentially less need for further surgery. The trial is for adults with different types of solid cancers and is an integrated Phase II and III study, meaning it's still in the testing stages to check both its effectiveness and safety.
At a glance
What is this study about?
The SURF trial is investigating an exciting new approach to cancer surgery. When surgeons operate to remove cancerous tumours, it's really important to take out all of the cancer cells to give the best chance of a successful outcome. Sometimes, it can be tricky for surgeons to tell the difference between healthy tissue and cancer, especially at the very edges of a tumour.
This trial uses a special method called 'fluorescence imaging' with a dye called indocyanine green (ICG). This dye is given to patients and then, when the surgeon looks at the area during the operation with a special camera, any cancer cells that have taken up the dye should glow. The idea is that this glow will act like a highlight, making it much easier for the surgeon to see exactly where the cancer stops and healthy tissue begins. This could help them remove the tumour more completely.
We want to see if this technique helps ensure that the 'margins' – the edges of the tissue removed during surgery – are clear of cancer, meaning no cancer cells are left behind. We'll also be checking how well the glowing areas match up with what pathologists find under the microscope and monitoring for any side effects. This research aims to make cancer surgery more precise and effective for patients with various types of solid cancers.
Key takeaways
- The SURF trial uses a special glowing dye to help surgeons see cancer better.
- This could lead to more complete removal of tumours during surgery.
- It's for adults with various types of solid cancers.
- The dye is given as an injection before the operation.
- The study aims to improve precision in cancer surgery.
- Patient safety and monitoring are key throughout the trial.
Who may be eligible?
To join the SURF trial, you would need to be an adult, aged 18 or older. Both men and women can take part.
You would also need to have a confirmed diagnosis of a solid cancer. This means your cancer would be one that forms a solid tumour, rather than a blood cancer. Examples include cancers in the head and neck, digestive system, liver, breast, or reproductive and urinary organs, as well as sarcomas.
Before you can join, the study team will carefully check your medical history and other health information to make sure the trial is suitable and safe for you. They will explain all the requirements in detail.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you have a confirmed solid cancer diagnosis?
- Are you able to undergo surgery for your cancer?
- Are you prepared to receive a special dye injection?
- Are you able to attend follow-up appointments?
- Are you open to having the surgical team use a special camera during your operation?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in the SURF trial, you'll be given a special dye called VERDYE (which contains indocyanine green) as an injection before your surgery. During your operation, the surgeons will use a special camera to look for areas that glow, indicating where the dye has collected in cancerous tissue. They will use this information to guide the removal of the tumour.
After your surgery, the tissue removed will be carefully examined to see how well the glowing areas matched the actual cancer cells. You'll have regular check-ups to monitor your recovery and see if there are any side effects from the dye or the procedure. The total duration of your participation will depend on the specific follow-up schedule designed to ensure your safety and gather all necessary information.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
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Common questions
What is indocyanine green (ICG)?
ICG is a safe, special dye used in medicine that glows under certain light. In this trial, we're testing if it can help surgeons see cancer cells more clearly during operations.
What does 'fluorescence imaging' mean?
It's a technique where surgeons use a special camera to see areas that glow after the ICG dye has been given. This glow can highlight areas of cancer.
Will this dye make me feel different?
Most people don't notice any changes after receiving the dye. The study team will monitor you closely for any effects.
What kind of cancers is this trial for?
This trial is for adults with different types of solid cancers, such as those found in the head and neck, digestive system, breast, and other areas.
What is the main goal of the SURF trial?
The main goal is to see if using the glowing dye helps surgeons remove all the cancer, ensuring the edges of the removed tissue are clear of cancer cells.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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