Magnetically-Assisted Remote Controlled Microcatheter Tip Deflection under Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Steven W. Hetts; Maythem Saeed; Alastair Martin; Prasheel Lillaney; Aaron Losey; Erin Jeannie Yee; Ryan Sincic; Loi Do; Lee Evans; Vincent Malba; Anthony F. Bernhardt; Mark W. Wilson; Anand Patel; Ronald L. Arenson; Curtis Caton; Daniel L. Cooke

doi:10.3791/50299

Magnetically-Assisted Remote Controlled Microcatheter Tip Deflection under Magnetic Resonance Ima...

JoVE Journal
Bioengineering

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JoVE Journal Bioengineering

Magnetically-Assisted Remote Controlled Microcatheter Tip Deflection under Magnetic Resonance Imaging

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12,944 Views

11:27 min

April 4, 2013

DOI: 10.3791/50299-v

Overview

This study focuses on developing a control system for enhanced steering of endovascular catheters during interventional MRI procedures. By utilizing microcatheters with electromagnets, the research aims to improve navigation efficiency in vascular environments.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

Neuroscience
Biomedical Engineering
Interventional Radiology

Background

Endovascular procedures require precise navigation of catheters.
Current methods can be limited in terms of control and efficiency.
Magnetic resonance guidance offers a potential solution for improved navigation.
Electromagnetic steering may enhance catheter maneuverability.

Purpose of Study

To develop a control system for endovascular catheter steering.
To test the effectiveness of microcatheters with electromagnets.
To evaluate navigation capabilities in simulated vascular conditions.

Methods Used

Fabrication of microcatheters with tiny electromagnets.
Development of a custom control system for remote navigation.
Testing in water baths to assess controllable deflections.
Navigation trials in phantoms simulating blood vessels.

Main Results

Predictable catheter tip deflections based on electrical current.
Successful navigation in vessel phantoms demonstrates steering ability.
Results indicate improved control over catheter positioning.
Magnetic resonance guidance enhances procedural efficacy.

Conclusions

The developed system shows promise for improved catheter navigation.
Electromagnetic steering can enhance endovascular procedures.
Further research may optimize the technology for clinical use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main goal of the study?

The main goal is to develop a control system for improved steering of endovascular catheters during interventional MRI.

How are the microcatheters designed?

They are fabricated with tiny electromagnets on their tips to allow for controllable deflections.

What methods were used to test the microcatheters?

The microcatheters were tested in water baths and navigated in phantoms simulating blood vessels.

What were the main findings of the study?

The study found predictable catheter tip deflections and successful navigation in vessel phantoms.

How does this research impact endovascular procedures?

It may improve the speed and efficacy of navigation during various endovascular procedures.

What future research is suggested?

Further research may focus on optimizing the technology for clinical applications.

Current applied to an endovascular microcatheter with microcoil tip made by laser lathe lithography can achieve controllable deflections under magnetic resonance (MR) guidance, which may improve speed and efficacy of navigation of vasculature during various endovascular procedures.

The overall goal of the following experiment is to develop and test a control system for improved steering of endovascular catheters in interventional MRI. This is achieved by fabricating microcatheters with tiny electromagnets on their tips as a second step. The microcatheters are attached to a custom built control system for remote controlled navigation.

Next microcatheters are controllably deflected in water baths and navigated in phantoms, which simulate conditions in the blood vessels of patients. Results from water bath experiments show predictable catheter tip deflections based on the amount and polarity of electrical current applied to the steering micro coils. Successful navigation in vessel phantoms demonstrates catheter steering ability.

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