Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 15, 2026
09:13
Remote Magnetic Navigation for Accurate, Real-time Catheter Positioning and Ablation in Cardiac Electrophysiology Procedures
Published on: April 21, 2013
Magnetic guide-wire navigation in pulmonary and systemic arterial catheterization: initial experience in pigs
Lars Grosse-Wortmann1, Ralf Grabitz, Marie-Christine Seghaye
1Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52057 Aachen, Germany. lgrosse-wortmann@ukaachen.de
Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology : JVIR
|April 21, 2007
Summary
Magnetic guide-wire navigation shows high feasibility in reaching target vessels, especially small, acute-angled arteries. This technique may improve interventional therapies for various vascular diseases in both pediatric and adult patients.
Area of Science:
- Interventional Cardiology
- Medical Device Technology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Cardiovascular catheterization faces challenges with stenotic or tortuous vessels.
- Navigating guide wires to target vessels can be difficult.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of magnetic guide-wire navigation in pulmonary and systemic arteries.
- To evaluate the use of an external magnetic field for guiding a magnetic-tipped guide wire.
Main Methods:
- Six piglets underwent magnetic guide-wire navigation procedures.
- 3D vascular anatomy was reconstructed from arteriograms.
- External magnets guided magnetic-tipped wires along calculated 3D vessel paths.
- Success was defined by reaching the target vessel within 10 attempts.
Main Results:
- Magnetic navigation successfully reached 94.6% (35/37) of targeted arteries with acute angles.
- Peripheral, small-diameter arteries were easier to access than large central arteries.
- Two pigs experienced failure in probing the left upper lobe artery.
Conclusions:
- Magnetic guide-wire navigation is a feasible technique for accessing arteries in the lungs, head, neck, and kidneys.
- The method is particularly advantageous for navigating small arterial branches with acute angles.
- This technology holds potential to enhance interventional treatments for diverse vascular conditions in pediatric and adult populations.
