Smart probe could help surgeons remove all cancer in one go

This study tests a device called SpiderMass that analyzes tissue molecules in real time during tongue cancer surgery. The goal is to help surgeons instantly tell cancerous from healthy tissue, so they can remove all the tumor in one operation. Currently, about 15-30% of patients need additional treatment because cancer cells are found at the surgical edge days later. This trial enrolls 33 adults with squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue who are having surgery as their first treatment. The device is being trained to recognize cancer patterns, which is the first step toward using it as a surgical guide.