A label-free hyperspectral imaging platform for neurosurgery: comprehensive monitoring of brain oxygenation and metabolism

Accurate tumor grading during brain surgery is essential for guiding treatment but currently depends on delayed histopathological analysis. Conventional imaging provides structural context but lacks real-time biochemical or functional insight. We present HyperProbe, a non-invasive hyperspectral imaging (HSI) platform for rapid, label-free intraoperative assessment of brain tissue. By capturing high-resolution reflectance spectra, HP enables molecular discrimination without contrast agents. Validated on optical phantoms and ex vivo glioma and meningioma biopsies, the system achieved reliable tumor grading in under 30 seconds. HP also integrates LED-based autofluorescence detection of metabolic cofactors (NADH, FAD), enabling real-time metabolic mapping. In vivo murine studies demonstrated the system’s ability to monitor vascular oxygenation dynamics, confirming its suitability for functional and hemodynamic imaging. By combining biochemical, metabolic, and vascular information, HyperProbe offers a comprehensive tool for intraoperative decision-making, potentially reducing reliance on invasive methods and delayed pathology.