Imagine operating with a clear view of the tissues normally hidden behind a curtain of blood. California’s Ocutrx Technologies has developed HemoLucence, a clever new tool that renders blood nearly transparent during surgery. In early lab tests, the system could see through about 3 millimetres of blood with plans to push that limit even further.
HemoLucence combines advanced computational physics with AI-driven, de-scattering algorithms to create a 3D picture of the anatomy beneath the blood. By analysing how light interacts with both blood and tissue, the technology distinguishes between light absorbed by blood and that scattered by red blood cells, offering surgeons a much clearer view during procedures. It’s set to integrate with the OR Bot 3D Surgical Microscope, enhancing imaging precision where it matters most.
Jordan Boss, Chief R&D Officer at Ocutrx Genius Labs, explains, “Seeing through blood in real time has long been an elusive goal in the operating room. We’re excited to finally turn what many thought impossible into a practical tool.” Dr Leonel Hunt from Cedars-Sinai shares this optimism, suggesting that better visibility could lead to safer surgeries.
Of course, the technology is still in its developmental stages. It awaits patent approval and further clinical trials before it can become a standard part of surgical practice. If you’ve ever wished for a less obstructed view during complex procedures, HemoLucence might be the answer to a common struggle in the operating room.
