MR-guided intravascular procedures: real-time parameter control and automated slice positioning with active tracking...

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Interventional Radiology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Magnetic resonance (MR)-guided interventions offer advanced visualization.
• Active tracking using radio-frequency coils enhances device localization.
• Integrating real-time imaging and user interfaces is crucial for complex procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and optimize a real-time pulse sequence and user interface for intravascular interventions.
• To enable active catheter tracking for precise device navigation.
• To facilitate single-operator control within the MR scanner room.

Main Methods:

• Developed a dedicated real-time MR pulse sequence with selectable imaging contrasts (FLASH, TrueFISP, MR-DSA).
• Integrated automatic slice positioning based on active tracking coil location.
• Combined active catheter tracking with a specialized user interface for real-time control.
• Assessed the technique in phantom and animal models.

Main Results:

• Successfully monitored active intravascular catheter movement in porcine aorta and renal arteries at 24 msec reaction time and 3 images/sec frame rate.
• Achieved fully MR-guided renal vasculature catheterization in under 10 minutes.
• Demonstrated interactive control of contrast and orientation during interventions.

Conclusions:

• Optimized real-time MR imaging and active catheter tracking enable successful intravascular interventions.
• A dedicated user interface and pulse sequence are key for single-operator control.
• This approach enhances the feasibility of MR-guided minimally invasive procedures.