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

NCT ID NCT04723810

Recruiting now Diagnosis Sponsor: University of Pennsylvania Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

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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.

TUMOR, SOLID

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Pennsylvania
RECRUITING

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States

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