4-D ICE: A 2-D Array Transducer With Integrated ASIC in a 10-Fr Catheter for Real-Time 3-D Intracardiac...

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Biomedical Engineering
• Cardiovascular Technology

Background:

• Current intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) primarily offers 2D imaging.
• Real-time 3D imaging (4-D ICE) can enhance visualization during cardiac procedures.
• Existing 4-D ICE systems face challenges in miniaturization and integration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel 2.5 ×6.6 mm 2D array transducer with an integrated application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) for 4-D ICE.
• To assess the feasibility of integrating this 4-D ICE system into a clinical ultrasound platform.
• To compare the performance of the developed 4-D ICE system with existing 2D ICE catheters.

Main Methods:

• Designed a compact 2D array transducer with integrated ASIC, optimizing element size for high-density circuitry.
• Integrated the transducer assembly into a 10-Fr catheter and connected it to a GE Vivid E9 ultrasound system.
• Conducted preclinical evaluations to assess image quality, field of view, and imaging speed.

Main Results:

• Achieved 2D image quality and imaging modes comparable to commercial 2D ICE catheters.
• Demonstrated a 4-D field of view of at least 90° ×60° ×8 cm, with imaging speeds of 30 volumes/second.
• Successfully visualized cardiac anatomy and other catheters in preclinical studies.

Conclusions:

• The developed 4-D ICE system provides real-time 3D visualization suitable for cardiac procedures.
• This technology has the potential to significantly reduce X-ray fluoroscopy use and radiation dose.
• 4-D ICE may offer an alternative to transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) for certain structural heart interventions, potentially lowering risks and costs.