Glowing dye could replace radioactive markers for breast cancer surgery

NCT ID NCT03313908

Completed Diagnosis Sponsor: University Hospital, Montpellier Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a fluorescent dye called indocyanine green (ICG) can help surgeons locate small, non-palpable breast tumors during surgery. Ten women with early-stage breast cancer received both the dye and a standard radioactive seed, and doctors compared how well each method pinpointed the tumor. The goal is to see if ICG could replace the radioactive method, making the procedure simpler and more comfortable for patients.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: indocyanine green (ICG)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could offer a simpler, non-radioactive way to locate small breast tumors during surgery, improving patient comfort and hospital logistics.
What could go wrong: This is a very small feasibility study with only 10 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The technique may not be as accurate as the current standard.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

breast cancer ductal breast carcinoma in situ female breast carcinoma

As listed by the trial registrant

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

BREAST CANCER FEMALE

Contacts and locations

Locations

UH Montpellier

Montpellier, 34295, France

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