MRI Tissue Probe With RF Tracking for Deep In-Situ Characterization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for in-situ tissue characterization, such as Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS), are limited by shallow visualization depth, necessitating the need for improved high-resolution imaging techniques with enhanced visualization capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatible tissue analysis device with an elongated probe equipped with RF tracking and imaging elements, allowing real-time positioning and imaging, and a deflection mechanism for precise tissue examination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If OCT or IVUS is used for in-situ tissue imaging, then rapid imaging and minimal invasiveness are achieved, but visualization depth is limited to 2-7 mm
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical imaging systems (OCT, IVUS) with MRI-based imaging. MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves instead of mechanical scanning, enabling deeper tissue penetration while maintaining imaging capability. The elongated probe with MRI-compatible imaging elements allows in-situ imaging at depths exceeding the limitations of OCT and IVUS.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the imaging modality from optical/ultrasound to magnetic resonance imaging. This parameter change enables deeper visualization depth while maintaining rapid imaging capabilities. The MRI system's ability to penetrate deeper into tissue is leveraged to overcome the depth limitations of conventional endoscopic imaging.
2Measurement precision
If tissue biopsy is performed for pathological characterization, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but tissue removal and invasiveness increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the tissue architecture through high-resolution MRI imaging. Instead of physically removing tissue for pathological analysis, the system generates detailed three-dimensional images that replicate the tissue structure, allowing diagnostic evaluation without actual tissue removal. This virtual biopsy approach maintains diagnostic accuracy while eliminating the harms associated with physical biopsy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical tissue removal (biopsy) with magnetic resonance imaging. The MRI system provides non-contact, non-invasive visualization of tissue characteristics, substituting the need for physical sample extraction while maintaining diagnostic capability.
3Measurement precision
If conventional biopsy methods are used, then tissue characterization is achieved, but time consumption and procedural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous in-situ imaging throughout the treatment procedure. The elongated probe remains in place and provides ongoing MRI-based tissue characterization, eliminating the need for separate biopsy procedures and pathological processing steps. This continuous imaging approach maintains diagnostic precision while significantly reducing overall procedure time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs tissue characterization preliminarily during the same procedure in which the elongated probe is inserted for treatment. By obtaining diagnostic images before treatment begins, the system eliminates the need for post-procedure pathological analysis, reducing total time consumption while maintaining characterization accuracy.
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 rapid, highly localized, and minimally invasive tissue analysis with enhanced visualization depth, reducing the need for conventional tissue removal and providing immediate diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.
Implementation Method 1
at least one radio-frequency (RF) tracking element operably connected to the elongated probe, which RF tracking element is operably connected, or connectable, to at least one MRI apparatus that is configured to track positioning of the elongated probe in substantially real-time
Implementation Method 2
at least one RF imaging element operably connected to the elongated probe, which RF imaging element is operably connected, or connectable, to the MRI apparatus that is further configured to capture one or more images of the elongated probe and/or the tissue in substantially real-time
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are methods of analyzing tissue using a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatible tissue analysis device that includes radio-frequency (RF) tracking and imaging elements. Related kits, systems, and computer program products are also provided.