The new study mentioned that the new device relies on tracking magnetic nanoparticles of iron oxide injected into the tumor. These particles travel with cancer cells towards the lymph nodes, helping doctors determine the extent of the disease’s spread instead of resorting to radioactive tracers or dyes that may cause allergies in some patients.
According to the study published by the newspaper ‘Hespress’ quoting the University of Warwick in the UK, the spread of cancer cells from the original tumor to other parts of the body is one of the most dangerous challenges. Doctors often need to determine if it has reached the lymph nodes, which filter fluids from harmful substances, as test results guide surgical and subsequent treatment decisions.
Newman added that the sensor is capable of detecting extremely small amounts of the tracer fluid, not exceeding one part in a hundred of the usual dose.
The study, as reported by the British university, concluded that the device is based on a small diamond no larger than half a cubic millimeter, supported by a small permanent magnet, allowing it to be used manually in operating rooms without the need for large electronic equipment.
