indocyanine green + isosulfan blue

Indocyanine green + isosulfan blue is a combination of two dyes used primarily for sentinel lymph node mapping and biopsy, especially in breast cancer and gynecologic oncology. Indocyanine green (ICG) is a fluorescent dye detected by near-infrared imaging, while isosulfan blue provides visual color contrast during surgery. The combination enhances the detection rate of sentinel lymph nodes compared to either agent alone, with studies showing improved sensitivity and reduced false negative rates when both are used together. ICG offers advantages such as real-time visualization, fewer allergic reactions compared to traditional blue dyes, and cost-effectiveness. Isosulfan blue has been widely used but can cause persistent skin staining or rare allergic reactions. This dual-dye approach allows surgeons to maximize the accuracy of lymphatic mapping in oncologic surgeries[1][3][6].

Brand names

Lymphazurin (for isosulfan blue)

Other names

ICG (for indocyanine green)blue dye (colloquial for isosulfan blue)