Multi-Asymmetric Irradiation Method Using a Ring Array to Obtain an Emission-Capable LED Beam Power Effect to Observe Cancer Removal Status in a Surgical Microscope

Abstract

The light emitting diodes (LEDs) used in surgical fluorescence microscopes have weak power, to induce fluorescence emission. The LED induces fluorescence emission throughout a lesion due to its large beam width; however, the beam irradiation intensity is not uniform within the beam width, resulting in a fluorescence emission induction difference. To overcome this problem, this study proposes an asymmetric irradiation array for supplying power uniformly throughout the beam width of the LED and increasing the intensity of the LED. To increase the irradiation power of the LEDs, a multi-asymmetric irradiation method with a ring-type array structure was used. The LED consisted of eight rings, and the space between the LEDs, the placement position, and the placement angle were analyzed to devise an experimental method using 3D printing technology. To test the irradiation power of the LED, the working distance (WD) between the LED and target was 30 cm. The bias voltage of the LED for irradiating the light source was 5.0 V and the measured power was 4.63 mW. The brightness (lux) was 1153 lx. Consequently, the LED satisfied the fluorescence emission induction conditions. The diameter of the LED-irradiated area was 9.5 cm. Therefore, this LED could be used to observe fluorescent emission-guided lesions. This study maximized the advantages of LEDs with optimal conditions for fluorescence emission by increasing the beam width, irradiation area, and energy efficiency, using a small number of LEDs at the maximum WD. The proposed method, optimized for fluorescence expression-induced surgery, can be made available at clinical sites by mass producing them through semiconductor processes.