Solid-State Imager for Locating and Defining Tumors

We will develop and test a light weight solid state imaging device (8x8 inches square) suitable for use in the operating room. Its specific application would be to assist the surgeon in locating tumor accumulations of radioactivity labelled monoclonal antibodies during surgical exploration. The unique feature of the imager is the detector will consist of an array of solid state elements rather than a single sodium iodide (NaI) crystal scintillator, as will be used in conventional (Anger-type) cameras. Its thickness and weight could be reduced because the imager would not use photomultiplier tubes or light pipes. This will result in a configuration in which the imager can be suspended above and moved in any position over the operative field, while being maintained in a sterile environment in much the same manner as a operating room light or operating microscope. The Phase I effort will demonstrate feasibility by producing and evaluating a 5 cm(2) imager with 6 mm resolution; the demonstration will include a 25 element solid state detector array that amplifies signal processing electronics and has a capability for video display and memory storage of the image.