Catheter Visualization System for Heart Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for catheter ablation in the heart lack optimal operator orientation during catheter guidance, leading to reduced accuracy and prolonged electroanatomical mapping times, with X-ray screening still required despite advancements in visualization techniques.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that correlate and visualize 3D anatomical image data with electroanatomical mapping data in real-time, using tomographical imaging methods like X-ray CT, MRI, or 3D ultrasound, to provide enhanced operator orientation during catheter application, reducing the need for X-ray imaging and improving procedural accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If fluoroscopic visualization is used for catheter guidance, then operator orientation is provided, but X-ray exposure increases and mapping time prolongs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines fluoroscopic imaging data with electroanatomical mapping data into a single integrated visualization system. The fusion of X-ray images with 3D electroanatomical maps allows operators to maintain orientation while reducing continuous X-ray exposure, as the system can switch between or combine modalities rather than relying solely on fluoroscopy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an image fusion algorithm as an intermediary that processes and combines data from both fluoroscopic and electroanatomical mapping systems. This intermediary layer creates a composite visualization that provides orientation information while allowing reduction of X-ray dose by relying more on the non-ionizing electroanatomical data.
2Ease of operation
If continuous fluoroscopic imaging is used for catheter guidance, then real-time orientation is achieved, but mapping time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic fluoroscopic imaging rather than continuous imaging, synchronized with the catheter movement and mapping acquisition. This periodic acquisition provides real-time orientation information at critical moments while allowing the electroanatomical mapping to proceed without continuous interruption, thereby reducing total mapping time.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging fluoroscopic and electroanatomical mapping data into a unified visualization, the system provides real-time orientation feedback without requiring continuous fluoroscopy. The integrated display shows catheter position within the 3D electroanatomical map, reducing reliance on continuous X-ray imaging and thereby shortening mapping time.
3Measurement precision
If electroanatomical mapping alone is used without image fusion, then mapping data is acquired, but operator orientation and anatomical context are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges fluoroscopic anatomical images with electroanatomical mapping data to create a fused visualization. This combination preserves the precise electrical measurement data while adding anatomical context from the X-ray images, enabling operators to better orient themselves within the heart's anatomy during the procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent overlays 2D fluoroscopic images with 3D electroanatomical mapping data, creating a multi-dimensional visualization. This dimensional integration provides operators with both the precise electrical measurements from mapping and the spatial anatomical context from fluoroscopy, enhancing orientation without sacrificing mapping precision.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances operator orientation and accuracy during catheter guidance, shortens mapping times, and reduces X-ray exposure by integrating real-time 3D anatomical and electroanatomical data visualization, improving the overall efficiency and precision of catheter ablation procedures.
Implementation Method 1
Using integrated electromagnetic sensors at the catheter point of the mapping catheter, it is possible to measure the voltage changes induced by catheter movements within the magnetic field and to calculate the position of the mapping catheter at any time
Implementation Method 2
3D image data of a body region containing an area to be treated are first recorded by way of a tomographical 3D imaging method
Implementation Method 3
tomographical imaging methods like X-ray CT, MRI, or 3D ultrasound
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a device and to a method for visual assistance during the electrophysiological use of a catheter in the heart, enabling electroanatomic 3D mapping data relating to an area of the heart to be treated to be visualized during the use of the catheter. Before the catheter is used, 3D image data of a body region containing the area to be treated is detected by means of a method for tomographic 3D imaging. The area to be treated or significant parts thereof are extracted from said 3D image data, in order to obtain selected 3D image data. The electroanatomic 3D mapping data and the selected 3D image data obtained are then classed in terms of position and dimension, and are adjacently visualized, for example, during the catheter ablation. The inventive method and associated device enable the orientation of the operator to be improved during the use of a catheter in the heart.