Interventional MRI Devices With Susceptibility-Differentiated Markers
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Solution Overview
Problem
The limited availability of interventional medical devices suitable for use under MRI hinders the widespread adoption of MRI-guided procedures, leading to increased patient visits, treatment delays, and reduced effectiveness due to the use of multiple imaging modalities and image alignment issues.
Innovation Solution
Development of medical devices with a dual-material construction, featuring a reinforcement member and a passive MRI marker, where the materials have distinct magnetic susceptibilities, allowing clear visualization under MRI without the need for multiple imaging modalities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional interventional devices are used under MRI, then the device structure is simple, but the device is not visible under MRI and requires multiple imaging modalities
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a composite structure with a ferromagnetic reinforcement member (providing structural support) and a paramagnetic marker (enabling MRI visualization). This composite material approach allows the device to simultaneously achieve mechanical strength and MRI visibility without requiring multiple separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The device applies different magnetic properties to different parts: the reinforcement member uses ferromagnetic material with high susceptibility for structural integrity, while the marker uses paramagnetic material with lower susceptibility for MRI visualization. This local differentiation of material properties enables both structural and imaging functions within a single device.
2Loss of information
If multiple imaging modalities are used for treatment, then comprehensive imaging information is obtained, but patient visits and treatment time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables MRI to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides both the structural guidance needed for intervention and the imaging contrast necessary for visualization. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate imaging modalities and multiple patient visits, as MRI alone can provide comprehensive imaging information throughout the procedure.
3Measurement precision
If image fusion software is used to merge MRI and ultrasound, then guidance information is provided, but image alignment issues and compression shifting occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the alignment problem by providing intrinsic MRI-visible markers directly on the device. This eliminates the need for complex image fusion software and post-processing alignment algorithms, as the device itself provides the reference points needed for accurate visualization without requiring software-based image merging.
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
Enables single-visit procedures with improved accuracy and reduced costs by providing clear visualization and alignment within MRI, enhancing the effectiveness of treatments.
Implementation Method 1
a passive MRI marker attached to the elongate member and formed of a second material having a second magnetic susceptibility that is different than, and preferably greater than, the first magnetic susceptibility
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to medical devices, methods of performing an interventional medical treatment under MRI, and methods of making a medical device. An example medical device includes an elongate member, a reinforcement member, and a marker. The elongate member has a proximal end, a distal end, and a circumferential wall having an outer surface and an inner surface that defines a lumen. The reinforcement member is disposed within the circumferential wall, extends along a length of the elongate member, is formed of a first material, and has a first susceptibility. The marker is attached to the elongate member, is formed of a second material, and has a second susceptibility that is different from the first susceptibility.