New Hand-Held imager aims to prevent accidental parathyroid damage in thyroid surgery

NCT ID NCT06939946

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This early study tested a hand-held imaging device to help surgeons identify parathyroid glands during thyroid surgery. The parathyroid glands are small and hard to see, and if accidentally removed or damaged, can cause low calcium levels and other complications. The device uses auto-fluorescence and sometimes a green dye to make the glands visible. The study enrolled 20 adults having thyroid surgery, but was terminated early, so results are limited.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Parathyroid auto-fluorescence imaging device (Hand-Held Imager) and Indocyanine green (ICG) dye

What this could lead to

If successful, this device could help surgeons better identify parathyroid glands during thyroid surgery, potentially reducing accidental removal or damage and lowering complication rates.

What could go wrong

This was a very early, small feasibility study that was terminated, so results are limited. The device may not improve outcomes significantly, and ICG dye carries a small risk of allergic reaction.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

parathyroid gland disorder thyroid gland disorder thyroid tumor

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Johns Hopkins Hospital

    Baltimore, Maryland, 21287, United States