Omnidirectional MRI Catheter Resonator for Precise Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in magnetic resonance (MR) guided endovascular procedures is the lack of a safe and appropriately sized apparatus for catheter tracking, with existing markers having shortcomings in size, efficacy, and safety that preclude clinical application.
Innovation Solution
Development of an omnidirectional MRI resonant marker comprising a tunable capacitor and conductor coil, configured to be associated with a medical device, which is tuned to match the frequency of the MRI scanner and creates a bright, highly localized signal enhancement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing markers are used for catheter tracking, then catheter tracking function is provided, but size, efficacy and safety shortcomings preclude clinical application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by making the capacitor tunable to match different MRI scanner frequencies. The resonant frequency of the marker can be adjusted by modifying the capacitor's electrical characteristics, allowing the marker to be optimized for specific clinical applications and MRI systems, thereby improving reliability without compromising safety
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by creating highly localized signal enhancement at the marker position. The resonant marker produces bright, focused signals at specific locations along the catheter, enabling precise catheter tracking while maintaining safety through localized rather than widespread electromagnetic effects
2Measurement precision
If marker size is reduced for better catheter integration, then catheter tracking precision improves, but signal detection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs resonance principles where the conductor coil and capacitor form an LC circuit that resonates at a specific frequency. This resonant oscillation amplifies the electromagnetic signal produced by the small marker, enabling high signal brightness despite the marker's miniaturized size, thus resolving the contradiction between small size and signal detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
By adjusting the electrical parameters of the capacitor and conductor coil, the resonant frequency and signal intensity can be optimized. This allows the marker to maintain high signal enhancement while remaining small enough for effective catheter integration and precise tracking
3Reliability
If omnidirectional signal detection is implemented, then catheter tracking reliability improves in all orientations, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a circular or loop-shaped conductor coil configuration that inherently provides omnidirectional electromagnetic coupling. This geometric design allows the marker to detect signals from MRI scanners regardless of the relative orientation between the marker and scanner, achieving omnidirectional tracking reliability without requiring multiple separate sensing elements that would increase complexity
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
The resonant marker provides safe, effective, and robust catheter tracking, enabling real-time navigation and enhanced visualization during MR-guided procedures, reducing radiation exposure and improving tissue differentiation.
Implementation Method 1
an omnidirectional MRI resonant marker comprises a tunable capacitor and a conductor formed into a conductor coil... which is tuned to match the frequency of the MRI scanner and creates a bright, highly localized signal enhancement
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed apparatus, systems and methods relate to interventional magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI). More specifically, clinical applications of the disclosed include magnetic resonance (MR) guided procedures such as endovascular interventions, percutaneous biopsies or deep brain stimulation