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Wireless magnetic resonance (MR) tracking of medical devices in the body

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This technology is a high-resolution tracking system for labeled intracorporeal devices using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Unmet Need: Safe endovascular device tracking with high spatiotemporal resolution

MRI is frequently used to track the position of and guide devices that are inserted into the body as part of medical procedures and surgeries. However, existing technologies rely on active or passive tracking techniques that have significant drawbacks and offer poor results. Passive techniques rely on subtle signal artifacts and offer poor signal to noise ratios, while active techniques require cumbersome electrical wires that can compromise safety.

The Technology: Real-time, wireless MR tracking of endovascular devices with high resolution

This technique enables accurate wireless tracking of labeled medical devices using MRI. For rapid image acquisition and real-time device tracking and guidance, this system detects the unique MR signals emitted by magnetically active atoms in the label such as fluorine. This signal is detected separately from the hydrogen signal that is used to create the image, providing a clear visualization of the device without distorting the surrounding anatomy. This allows for wireless real-time tracking of medical devices in the body without sacrificing signal to noise ratio or resolution.

A prototype of the technology has been tested and shown to be effective.

Applications:

  • Real-time tracking and imaging of endovascular catheters, medical devices, and surgical instruments
  • System for minimally invasive surgery instrument positioning
  • Endovascular and percutaneous surgical imaging system for patients with renal failure or iodine allergies
  • Operating room imaging device

Advantages:

  • Distortion-free MRI image of anatomy surrounding marked device
  • Several different labeling agents enable simultaneous tracking of multiple devices
  • Does not use harmful radiation, contrast agent, or dye
  • Completely wireless tracking reduces infection risk
  • Can be combined with existing MRI techniques to automatically orient imaging planes and visualize surrounding tissues

Lead Inventor:

John Pile-Spellman, M.D.

Patent Information:

Patent Status

Tech Ventures Reference: