MRI Composite Fiber Guidewire with Integrated Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Guidewires used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) face challenges due to RF-heating issues caused by long conductors and the inability to integrate sensors without causing imaging artifacts or interference, limiting their compatibility and functionality within MRI systems.
Innovation Solution
A guidewire constructed with a composite shaft comprising low electrical conductivity and magnetic susceptibility fibers, such as dielectric or non-magnetic fibers, which allows for the integration of sensors like fiber optic cables or resistive wire cables, enabling their use in MRI systems by using a pultrusion process to manufacture a flexible and MRI-compatible guidewire with a tapered distal tip region.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If long conductors are used to integrate sensors into the guidewire, then sensor functionality is achieved, but RF-heating problems occur in the MRI system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes traditional long metal conductors from the guidewire structure and replaces them with fiber optic cables and short resistive wire cables. This extraction of the harmful conductive elements eliminates RF-heating while preserving sensor functionality through alternative signal transmission methods that are MRI-compatible.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes electrical signal transmission with optical signal transmission using fiber optic cables. This replacement of the electrical mechanism with an optical mechanism allows sensor data to be transmitted without the RF-heating problems associated with electrical conductors in the MRI environment.
2Reliability
If traditional conductive materials are used in the guidewire, then electrical conductivity is achieved, but imaging artifacts and interference with MRI imaging occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite shaft construction combining non-conductive fibers (such as PTFE, polyethylene, or aramid fibers) with minimal metallic reinforcement. This composite structure provides the necessary mechanical strength and flexibility while maintaining low electrical conductivity and magnetic susceptibility, thereby eliminating MRI imaging artifacts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical and magnetic parameters of the guidewire materials by using non-conductive or low-conductivity materials with low magnetic susceptibility. This parameter change from traditional conductive metals to non-conductive composites allows the guidewire to function in MRI environments without causing imaging artifacts.
3Strength
If the guidewire shaft is made rigid for structural support, then structural stability is achieved, but flexibility and ability to navigate vessels is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite shaft construction combining non-conductive fibers (such as PTFE, polyethylene, or aramid fibers) with a matrix material to create a structure that provides both strength and flexibility. The composite structure distributes mechanical loads across different materials, achieving structural stability while maintaining the flexibility needed for vascular navigation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different material properties to different sections of the guidewire shaft. The shaft region uses a composite structure optimized for structural support, while the distal tip region may have modified properties for enhanced flexibility. This local differentiation allows the guidewire to maintain overall structural integrity while providing the flexibility needed for navigation.
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 the use of guidewires with integrated sensors in MRI systems, allowing for precise measurements and navigation without causing RF-heating or imaging artifacts, while maintaining flexibility and reducing the risk of irritation or reaction within the body.
Implementation Method 1
The fibers have a low electrical conductivity and a low magnetic susceptibility
Implementation Method 2
The fibers have a low electrical conductivity and a low magnetic susceptibility
Implementation Method 3
A pultrusion process may function by embedding fibers in a resin which is then formed with the fibers. For example a resin such as a thermosetting polymer may be used in conjunction with a heated die to form the composite material.
Data Source
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AI summary
A guide wire (400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1200, 1300) is adapted for use in magnetic resonance imaging systems. The guide wire has a shaft region (402) and a distal tip region (404). The shaft region comprises a composite shaft (406) comprising reinforcing fibers aligned with a length extension (403) of the shaft region. The fibers extend at least partially into the distal tip region. The fibers form a taper (410) within the distal tip region. The distal tip region comprises a sensor (504, 604, 702, 704, 804, 904, 1006, 1008). The shaft comprises a cable (502, 602, 702, 704, 802, 902, 1002, 1004). The cable is connected to the sensor.