Glow-in-the-dark dye helps surgeons spot hidden cancer during operations

NCT ID NCT04723810

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

Summary

This study tests a dye called indocyanine green that is injected into the blood before surgery. The dye makes tumors glow under a special camera, helping surgeons see and remove cancer that might otherwise be missed. The trial includes 500 adults with solid tumors who are scheduled for surgery. The goal is to find the best dose and timing, and to see if the dye improves how completely the cancer is removed.

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 (a dye injected into the blood before surgery)

What this could lead to

If it works, this dye could help surgeons see and remove more cancer during surgery, potentially reducing the chance of cancer coming back.

What could go wrong

This is an early-phase trial (Phase 1/2) testing safety and best dosing, so it is not yet proven to improve outcomes. The dye may not work well for all tumor types, and there is a small risk of allergic reaction or side effects from the dye.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • University of Pennsylvania

    RECRUITING

    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States

    Contact Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••