Application of Folic Acid-Targeted Near-Infrared-II (NIR-II) Carbon Dots in Ex Vivo Histopathological Analysis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
This prospective, single-center observational study evaluates the diagnostic accuracy of a novel Folate-targeted Near-Infrared II Carbon Dot (FA-CDots) probe for the ex vivo assessment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC). Following standard radical hepatectomy, resected liver specimens will be incubated with the FA-CDots probe and imaged using a NIR-II fluorescence system. The study aims to determine the feasibility and accuracy of this technology in identifying tumor margins and micro-lesions by comparing the fluorescence imaging results with standard histopathological examination.
• Primary diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) confirmed clinically or by preoperative biopsy.
• Scheduled for radical hepatectomy.
• Preoperative imaging (CT/MRI) suggests indistinct tumor boundaries, infiltrative growth, or proximity to major vessels (expected margin \< 1cm).
• Liver function classified as Child-Pugh Grade A.
• ASA Physical Status classification I-III.
• Participant or legal guardian willing to sign informed consent for the use of ex vivo tissues.