Researchers at the University of Waterloo have developed a digital medical imaging system for cancer biopsy that greatly enhances cancer detection and allows for quick diagnosis and efficient treatment of all cancer types.
The Photon Absorption Remote Sensing (PARS) system, an innovative, built-from-scratch technology, is faster than traditional cancer detection methods. Furthermore, it aims to deliver a diagnosis in minutes, enabling prompt surgical intervention. Currently, patients wait weeks or even months to receive biopsy results, leading to delays in treatment and increased patient anxiety
Dr Parsin Haji Reza, lead researcher and professor in Waterloo’s Department of Systems Design Engineering, said
One of the most important steps in detecting cancer is the biopsy procedure. Taking a tissue sample, sectioning it, dyeing it with various dyes, mounting the sections on slides, and then examining the slides under a microscope to find cancer markers are all part of the classic histology procedure.
The AI system receives the data and converts it into a typical histopathology image that the pathologist can read. Applying digital image filters to a single tissue sample eliminates the need for multiple slide preparations. It provides numerous reads without causing damage to the sample, allowing for future study if necessary.
The PARS system expedites diagnosis while conserving time and costs by substituting artificial intelligence (AI)-powered high-resolution imaging for conventional approaches. A tissue sample is exposed to lasers, producing a distinct and finely detailed collection of high-resolution data.