A fibre-optic catheter-tip force sensor with MRI compatibility: a feasibility study.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Device Technology
• Sensor Development

Background:

• Catheter-based interventions require precise control to avoid damaging blood vessels.
• Current force sensing methods may lack MRI compatibility or be prohibitively expensive.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a low-cost, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)-compatible fiber-optic sensor for detecting catheter tip contact forces.

Main Methods:

• Integrated three plastic optical fibers within a catheter, aligned circularly.
• Utilized a deformable material and reflector at the catheter tip to modulate light signals based on applied force.
• Developed an electronic circuit for signal amplification and force classification.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated good force linearity under static loading and unloading conditions.
• Achieved good dynamic response when tested in an artificial blood artery.
• Confirmed MRI compatibility due to the use of low magnetic susceptibility materials.

Conclusions:

• The developed fiber-optic sensor is a cost-effective, MRI-compatible solution for real-time contact force measurement during catheter procedures.
• This technology has the potential to improve safety and efficacy in minimally invasive interventions.