(182c) Fluorescent Nanothermometry-Enabled Robotic Minimally Invasive Laser Tissue Soldering

Laser tissue soldering combines laser light with a specialized adhesive material called solder paste, offering a compelling alternative to traditional sutures and staples. This innovative surgical technique primarily utilizes protein-based adhesives to form robust, watertight bonds. Its suitability for minimally invasive procedures presents distinct advantages over conventional methods, particularly in delicate tissues like blood vessels, nerves, and the intestine, where complications such as inflammation, infection, and fluid leaks can arise.

However, the effectiveness of laser tissue soldering heavily relies on precise temperature management during the procedure. Our research introduces a novel approach to address this challenge, employing controlled laser tissue soldering guided by fluorescent nanothermometers. These nanothermometers, seamlessly integrated into protein-based solders, enable non-invasive temperature monitoring. As a significant step toward more accurate and less invasive soldering techniques, we demonstrate automatic temperature control and intelligent laser power modulation for achieving optimal outcomes. This progress is facilitated by incorporating an intelligent solder paste containing near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent nanothermometers and nanoabsorbers such as gold nanorods or titanium nitrate nanoparticles.

Moreover, our study integrates computer vision-based solder recognition and various strategies to guide surgery by analyzing the temperature distribution based on nanothermometry during soldering, thereby enhancing procedural precision. We also emphasize the crucial advantages of minimally invasive soldering in clinically relevant scenarios.