MRI-Compatible Medical Device with Susceptibility-Contrast Marker
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current interventional medical devices suitable for use under MRI are limited, restricting the growth of MRI-guided interventions and resulting in less convenient and potentially less effective treatment options for patients.
Innovation Solution
Development of interventional medical devices featuring an elongate member with a reinforcement member and a marker, where the reinforcement member is formed of a material with a specific magnetic susceptibility and the marker is made of a different material with a higher magnetic susceptibility, allowing for improved visualization and handling within MRI environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional interventional medical devices are used under MRI, then the devices can perform basic functions, but the devices lack optimal MRI compatibility and visualization capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the magnetic susceptibility of device materials to optimize MRI performance. The reinforcement member uses a first magnetic susceptibility while the marker uses a second, higher magnetic susceptibility, creating optimal contrast and visualization under MRI without compromising structural integrity or device functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by combining different materials with different magnetic susceptibilities within the same device structure. The elongate member integrates a reinforcement member (first material, first susceptibility) and a marker (second material, second susceptibility), creating a composite structure that simultaneously provides mechanical strength and optimized MRI visualization.
2Loss of information
If multiple imaging modalities are used for treatment, then comprehensive diagnostic information can be obtained, but the treatment process requires multiple patient visits and extended time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple imaging modalities by integrating MRI-compatible features directly into the interventional device. The marker with enhanced magnetic susceptibility allows the device to be visualized under MRI throughout the procedure, combining diagnostic imaging and interventional treatment in a single MRI-guided session, eliminating the need for separate imaging visits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing a device that performs multiple functions: structural reinforcement, MRI visualization, and procedural guidance. The elongate member with its composite structure serves as both the functional interventional device and the imaging marker, allowing a single device to fulfill multiple roles that previously required separate imaging sessions.
3Measurement precision
If software is used to merge images from multiple imaging modalities, then guidance can be provided, but image overlay or alignment issues and compression shifting occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by incorporating a physical marker directly on the device that serves as a reference point for MRI visualization. This marker with enhanced magnetic susceptibility acts as an intermediary that provides direct, real-time spatial reference during the procedure, eliminating the need for software-based image merging and avoiding alignment issues between different imaging modalities.
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 described medical devices enable more effective and efficient interventional procedures under MRI by providing enhanced imaging capabilities and improved handling characteristics, potentially reducing the number of patient visits and treatment duration.
Implementation Method 1
a marker attached to the elongate member and formed of a second material and having a second susceptibility that is different from the first 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.