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MULTIMODAL VISUALISATION

Colour, ICG & fluorescence

See anatomy. Then add another signal.

Different views answer different questions.

HOW IT WORKS
Example fluorescence overlay on a surgical image
FLUORESCENCE OVERLAY · EXAMPLE
White light
Anatomical colour context
NIR view
Detected fluorescence signal
Overlay
Signal placed over the colour view

THE PRINCIPLE

How it works

White-light imaging shows the illuminated surgical field in colour. ICG imaging detects near-infrared fluorescence from indocyanine green using compatible equipment. The display may show the fluorescence separately or as a coloured overlay. ICG is one fluorescence agent—not a synonym for all fluorescence imaging.

01

White light provides orientation

Visible-light imaging shows surface colour and structure. Fluorescence imaging adds information detected in a different wavelength band; it does not replace the anatomical view.

02

Display modes are not interchangeable measurements

An overlay retains colour context. A monochrome NIR view isolates fluorescence, while an intensity map assigns colours to relative signal strength. Availability and processing vary by platform.

03

Interpret the signal in context

A brighter pixel is not a direct oxygen measurement or proof of healthy tissue. Administration timing, distance and system processing can affect appearance. Clinical interpretation remains essential.

Excitation & fluorescence detectionExcitation lightFluorophoreFiltered detectorAbsorptionEmissionICG reference peaks*: 805 nm → 830 nm*Protein-bound ICG. Not a light-source specification.
Working principle · simplified diagram.
Evidence: [1] KARL STORZ — colour, overlay and NIR viewing modes ↗[2] IC-GREEN — prescribing information, mechanism of action ↗

BEFORE YOU CHOOSE

Ask the right questions.

Assess the exact scope, camera, processor, accessories and service package you will receive. A demonstration should use that configuration.

  • Available colour, fluorescence-only and overlay modes.
  • Ease of switching views without interrupting the workflow.
  • Visibility of anatomical context alongside the fluorescence signal.
  • Mode-specific image quality and recording support.

FOR SURGEONS & HOSPITAL TEAMS

Frequently asked questions

Is the green overlay the tissue’s actual colour?

No. The system assigns a visible colour to a near-infrared signal.

Does a bright image prove tissue is healthy?

No. Interpretation depends on the clinical context, timing, equipment and limitations of the technique.

Can every fluorescence camera detect every agent?

No. The illumination and detection bands must match the agent and intended use.

DISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENTS VIEW SURGICAL SUITES