Indocyanine green fluorescence imaging: A novel technique in liver transplantation

Abstract

Indocyanine green (ICG) is a fluorescent dye that is widely used in hepatobiliary surgery for fluorescence contrast. ICG is selectively absorbed by the liver after intravenous injection and then secreted into the bile. ICG's unique catabolism and fluorescence characteristics allow for multiple applications in liver transplantation. We have divided the applications of ICG fluorescence imaging in liver transplantation into: (i) cholangiography, (ii) evaluation of liver transplantation vessels, (iii) liver mapping, and (iv) evaluation of donor liver quality. In this review, we summarize the current status of applications of ICG fluorescence imaging in liver transplantation.

Keywords

• Indocyanine green (ICG)
• Fluorescence imaging
• Liver transplantation
• Liver
• Surgery