Multi-selective catheter for MR-guided endovascular interventions.

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Interventional Radiology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Conventional selective catheterization involves repeated instrument exchanges, increasing risks of endovascular injury and radiation dose.
• Existing selective catheters have fixed shapes, necessitating exchanges to access different vascular branches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel multi-selective catheter capable of mimicking three common selective catheters.
• To assess the feasibility of using this integrated catheter under magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guidance, reducing reliance on X-ray.

Main Methods:

• A deflectable, polymer-based catheter (1.2 m long, 2.15 mm diameter) was engineered to integrate multiple pre-defined distal shapes.
• The catheter's compatibility with MRI guidance was tested in an abdominal model and an animal subject.
• Navigation and cannulation tasks were performed using the catheter and an MRI-safe guidewire.

Main Results:

• The multi-selective catheter successfully mimicked the shapes of three widely used selective catheters.
• The instrument was clearly visualized under real-time MRI without causing artifacts.
• Vascular structures including iliac, renal, brachiocephalic, and left subclavian arteries were cannulated without catheter exchange.

Conclusions:

• The developed multi-selective catheter offers a promising alternative to conventional sequential catheter exchanges.
• MRI guidance with this integrated catheter minimizes radiation exposure and potential for endovascular injury.
• This technology facilitates complex vascular interventions with enhanced safety and efficiency.