Tissue identification for surgical guidance using biophotonics
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Date
2026-05-06
Authors
Ghauri, M. Daniyal
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Publisher
University College Cork
Published Version
Abstract
Optical spectroscopic techniques provide powerful non-invasive means for probing biological tissues to reveal their structural, functional and molecular characteristics. Their utilization spans diagnostic, therapeutic and monitoring regimes. Advancing these capabilities, this work establishes a unified framework for optical tissue identification and surgical guidance by integrating diagnostics, analytical modeling, phantom development and minimally invasive biomarker assessment.
The work begins with continuous wave (CW) diffuse reflectance spectroscopy applied for early detection of malignancy in the oral cavity. This study demonstrates that spectral signature can sensitively capture biochemical changes to differentiate diseased tissues from healthy. Motivated by the clinical promise of CW methods but recognizing limitations in quantitative and depth resolved characterization, an analytical hybrid model combining continuous wave and photon time of flight (pToF) spectroscopy was subsequently developed. It offers simplicity and portability of CW systems with depth sensitivity of time-resolved measurements to overcome the bulky hardware and long acquisition times typically required for broadband pToF systems. The resulting optical parameters enable real time interpretation of key physiological markers such as blood content and oxygenation, supporting informed diagnostic decision making. To support therapeutic applications, a hybrid solid–liquid anthropomorphic phantom was developed to replicate optical and anatomical features simultaneously. This complex model addresses the long-standing need for anatomically accurate optical phantom models for optimizing interstitial photodynamic therapy dosimetry. Extending optical assessment beyond direct tissue interrogation, Raman spectroscopic analysis of blood plasma was explored as a minimally invasive means to detect systemic biochemical alterations associated with localized tissue disease. Correlations between plasma derived spectral signatures and paired tissue biopsies demonstrate feasibility of optical blood based biomarkers for monitoring and patient stratification without the need for repeated tissue sampling.
Collectively, these explorations establish a comprehensive framework for optical tissue characterization that spans clinical deployment, analytical modeling, phantom validation and minimally invasive diagnostics. This work contributes to the advancement of precision healthcare, while paving the way for future interdisciplinary developments in biophotonics.
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Keywords
Tissue diagnostics , Biophotonics , Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy , Raman spectroscopy
Citation
Ghauri, M. D. 2026. Tissue identification for surgical guidance using biophotonics. PhD Thesis, University College Cork.