Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 4, 2025

Magnetically-Assisted Remote Controlled Microcatheter Tip Deflection under Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Published on: April 4, 2013
Towards catheter steering using magnetic tractor beam coupling
Chayabhan Limpabandhu1, Yihua Hu1, Hongliang Ren2
1Department of Electronic Engineering, University of York, York, UK.
This study introduces a novel magnetic steering system for catheters, enabling precise remote control for medical procedures. The technology offers significant potential for improved catheterization outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Medical Devices
- Robotics
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Catheter navigation is crucial for effective clinical outcomes.
- Steerable catheters improve access to targeted anatomical regions, minimizing tissue damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel magnetic actuation technology for enhanced catheter steering.
- To demonstrate the feasibility and maneuverability of the proposed steering mechanism.
Main Methods:
- Development of a catheter steering system utilizing three interacting magnetic couples.
- Construction and testing of a proof-of-concept catheter prototype.
Main Results:
- The prototype successfully demonstrated remote catheter steering over 100 mm distance.
- Achieved angular positioning of ±45°, indicating significant maneuverability.
- Validated the feasibility of magnetic control for catheter navigation.
Conclusions:
- The three-magnet pair approach offers a viable method for catheter steering.
- This technology holds great potential for application in various catheterization procedures.
- Future work will focus on mechanism kinematics and generalized steering solutions.
Related Concept Videos
Torque On A Current Loop In A Magnetic Field
Consider a rectangular current-carrying loop containing N turns of wire, placed in a uniform magnetic field. The net force on a current-carrying loop...
Magnetic Field Due to Two Straight Wires
Force On A Current Loop In A Magnetic Field
Magnetic Field Due To A Thin Straight Wire
Magnetic Field Of A Current Loop
Magnetic Vector Potential
Consider an ideal solenoid with n turns per unit length and radius R. If I is the current through the solenoid, the magnetic field inside the solenoid is expressed as the product of vacuum...

