Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is ideally suited to monitor minimally invasive operations with catheters or needles, since it offers both a superior soft-tissue contrast and the possibility to perform functional tests. In the present study, small radio-frequency coils were attached to the instruments in order to localize the MR-invisible instruments. The implementation of active instrument tracking is described on the basis of the example of active catheter tracking. In this case, the current position information of the instrument is used to automatically position the MRI slice at the catheter location. In combination with a user interface, the interventional radiologist is offered the possibility to perform vascular interventions from within the MR scanner room. At image update rates of approximately 3 Hz, tracking and placement of catheters in vascular structures are possible with interactive switching of slice orientation and image contrast. In an animal model, the technique was successfully used to selectively visualize the abdominal vessels and their branches under MRI guidance.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
