Intraoperative tissue characterization and imaging.

As surgical operative technology improves, surgeons today have the ability to visualize fine structures and detailed anatomy. There are a number of advances that have been made to optimize patient outcomes with better tissue characterization in urologic procedures. This article focuses on advances in intraoperative imaging and tissue characterization for various urologic procedures. Each modality is presented with its corresponding applications in urology. The following techniques are covered: optical coherence tomography, confocal fluorescent microscopy, near infrared fluorescence imaging, elastography, intraoperative ultrasonography, and a neurovascular bundle surgical mapping aid.