Image Guided Therapies

Impact of Image Guided Therapy Research

The research into using imaging techniques like ultrasound and thermal imaging in treatment of head and neck cancer has shown significant improvements in patient quality of life. These techniques have since been adopted internationally.

Key Developments

1. Pioneered the use of 3D contour modeling in head and neck surgery to improve flap design and restore cheek volume by assessing volume atrophy.

2. Surgical mapping applied in managing oral cavity pre-cancer and cancer, enabling earlier treatment to prevent malignant transformation.

3. Narrow-band imaging is utilized to precisely examine oral cancer margins, enhancing tumor mapping and control of the primary site.

Integrating Imaging into Patient Care Pathways

Led the adoption and integration of ultrasound and other imaging techniques across surgery, radiation oncology, diagnostic imaging, and endocrinology at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. Successfully implemented these practices in ambulatory clinics and operating rooms, making them standard in patient care.

Practical Applications

  • Bedside Ultrasound

    Bedside ultrasound enables rapid patient assessment, allowing surgeons to decide on surgery or monitoring without long waits for radiology. This reduces patient stress, avoids unnecessary procedures, and improves healthcare efficiency and quality.

  • Thermal Imaging

    The adoption of thermal imaging to guide incision placement has allowed smaller incisions, with less risk of unintentional damage to important blood vessels and other tissue structures. This allows the surgical site to heal more quickly with less risk of complications and long-term damage

  • Reconstruction Techniques

    Helped develop novel techniques for extended lip reconstructions restoring crucial functions like speaking, drinking, and eating, significantly enhancing patients' quality of life after major procedures.

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Craniofacial Prosthetics