Advances in digital imaging technology facilitated the practical use of which type of dye?

Advances in digital imaging technology have greatly enhanced the practical use of indocyanine green (ICG) dye, making it particularly prominent in various medical applications. ICG is a near-infrared fluorescing dye that is primarily used in procedures like angiography and lymphatic mapping. The ability of digital imaging systems to capture and analyze near-infrared light allows for improved visualization of ICG distribution within tissues, enabling real-time assessment during surgeries. This has made it a valuable tool for surgeons, especially in fields such as ophthalmology and oncology, for ensuring accurate identification of blood vessels and lymphatic systems.

While fluorescein, rose bengal, and methylene blue are also dyes used in medical imaging and applications, their interactions with digital imaging technologies do not benefit from this same level of enhanced visualization as ICG does, particularly in the near-infrared spectrum. Thus, the recent advancements in imaging technology have particularly elevated the use of indocyanine green in clinical practice.