Raman Spectrometer Pen for Cancer Margin Detection
Presentation Type
Visual Display
Conference Date
Spring 4-17-2026
Abstract
Cancer removal surgeries often leave behind small tumor remnants that can lead to recurrence and additional procedures. Current margin detection methods rely on biopsies that require tissue samples to be sent to a laboratory and take 20 to 30 minutes for results, providing no real time guidance in the operating room. To address this problem, we are developing a disposable handheld Raman pen designed to allow surgeons to detect cancer in the operating room, improving precision while preserving healthy tissue.
Our design incorporates a 2.1 mm fiber optic cable encased in a stainless-steel inner tube and a biocompatible resin outer shell. Design goals focus on optical lens compatibility, minimization of Raman background interference, and mechanical protection of the fiber optic cable. Multiple CAD iterations were used to optimize the inner tube geometry, including length, bend angle, and wall thickness, to prevent mechanical failure during tensile and torsional loading. The outer shell geometry was refined to improve ergonomics, enabling a stable grip, controlled probe placement, and consistent contact with tissue.
To evaluate optical performance, including laser delivery efficiency and Raman signal collection, we will test the device on chicken tissue and formalin fixed tissue samples to assess signal precision and repeatability. Mechanical durability will be quantified through tensile, torsional, and impact drop testing in accordance with relevant ASTM standards. Surface hydrophobicity will be characterized using water contact angle measurements. Biocompatibility will be evaluated following ISO 10993 guidelines, including cytotoxicity, sensitization, and irritation or intracutaneous reactivity testing.
Successful results may enable a handheld Raman approach that provides real time margin assessment, reduces repeat surgeries, and improves complete tumor resection while preserving healthy tissue.
Presenter
Marie Howe, Lillian Bodi, Grace Ladner, Aseel Ahmed, & Helen Watson
Recommended Citation
Howe, M., Bodi, L., Ladner, G., Ahmed, A., & Watson, H. (2026). Raman Spectrometer Pen for Cancer Margin Detection. Retrieved from https://repository.lsu.edu/discover_pubs/3
Faculty Mentor
Manas Gartia
Award
Top 5 Group Presentation, LSU College of Engineering
Academic Major
Biological Engineering; Biological Engineering; Biological Engineering; Biological Engineering; Biological Engineering