Clinical Consensus Statement on the Use of Indocyanine Green Fluorescence-guided Surgery in Pediatric Patients

Abstract

Background and aims: Indocyanine Green Fluorescence (ICG-F)- guided surgery is becoming an increasingly helpful tool in pediatric surgical care. This consensus statement investigates the utility of ICG-F in various pediatric surgical applications, primarily focusing on its evidence base, safety, indications, use across different surgical specialties and dosing strategies. The aim is to establish an international consensus for ICG-F use in pediatric surgery. Methods: An international panel of 15 pediatric surgeons from 9 countries was assembled. The structured process consisted of a rapid scoping review, iterative discussion sessions, mixed-methods studies with key stakeholders, and voting rounds on individual statements to create draft consensus statements. Results: 100 articles were identified during the review and summarized by application. Based on this condensed evidence, consensus statements were generated after 3 iterative rounds of anonymous voting. Key areas of agreement were quality of evidence, the safety of ICG, pediatric surgical indications, utilization per surgical specialty, and dosing of ICG. Conclusion: This consensus statement aims to guide healthcare professionals in managing ICG-F use in pediatric surgical cases based on the best available evidence, key stakeholder consultation, and expert opinions. Despite ICG-F's promising potential, the need for higher-quality evidence, prospective trials, and safety studies is underscored. The consensus also provides a framework for pediatric surgeons to utilize ICG-F effectively. Level of Evidence: III.