MRI-Guided Contrast Agent Infusion for Brain Distribution Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the steady state volume of material infusion in therapeutic regions, such as the brain or spinal cord, lack precision in predicting the volume of efficacy and distribution, leading to potential inefficiencies and adverse effects due to concentration gradients and infusion site variability.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the use of a contrast agent like Magnevist®, viewable in MRI images, is infused to determine the volume of distribution and concentration gradient, which is then correlated with the therapy material's distribution to establish optimal infusion parameters, including flow rates and catheter placement, using computer algorithms and navigation systems to achieve a desired volume of efficacy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a contrast agent is infused to determine volume of distribution, then the volume of efficacy can be predicted, but the measurement precision is insufficient due to concentration gradients and infusion site variability
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses MRI imaging to obtain feedback on the actual distribution and concentration of the contrast agent in the brain tissue. This feedback information is then used to adjust and optimize the infusion parameters (flow rate, duration, catheter position) to achieve the desired volume of efficacy with higher precision and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement methods with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to detect and measure the contrast agent distribution. This substitution provides non-invasive, high-resolution imaging capability that significantly improves measurement precision compared to conventional techniques.
2Reliability
If infusion parameters are optimized to achieve desired concentration, then therapeutic outcome is enhanced, but device complexity increases due to need for navigation systems and computer algorithms
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates multiple functions into a unified platform: the navigation system guides catheter placement, the computer algorithms optimize infusion parameters, and the MRI system provides both diagnostic imaging and therapeutic monitoring. This multi-functional integration improves therapeutic reliability while managing overall system complexity through coordination of existing technologies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces computer algorithms as an intermediary between the physical infusion system and the therapeutic outcome. These algorithms process imaging data, predict drug distribution, and automatically adjust infusion parameters, serving as a intelligent mediator that enhances therapeutic reliability without requiring direct complex mechanical adjustments.
3Measurement precision
If contrast agent infusion is used to map distribution, then volume of efficacy can be determined, but loss of time occurs due to imaging and analysis requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary MRI imaging to map the brain anatomy and predict the optimal catheter placement position and infusion parameters before actual drug delivery. This preliminary action allows the treatment plan to be pre-optimized, reducing the time required during the actual therapeutic intervention while maintaining high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous or repeated MRI imaging during the contrast agent infusion process to track the distribution in real-time. This continuous monitoring allows for dynamic adjustment of infusion parameters without interrupting the treatment flow, maintaining measurement precision while minimizing time loss through efficient use of imaging intervals.
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 allows for precise determination of infusion parameters, ensuring the therapeutic material reaches the desired concentration and location effectively, enhancing the therapeutic outcome while minimizing adverse effects by predicting the steady-state volume of distribution and concentration gradient.
Implementation Method 1
a contrast agent can be infused into a subject and a determination can be made based upon the VOD or a concentration gradient of the infused material in the VOD... The contrast agent can include Magnevist® that is a contrast agent viewable in magnetic resonant imaging (MRI) images
Data Source
AI summary
A contrast agent can be infused into a subject and a determination can be made of a VOD and/or a concentration gradient of the contrast agent in the VOD. The contrast agent can be infused in the subject using selected parameters. A correlation to a selected material can be made to determine parameters for infusion the selected material.