An Electromagnetically Controllable Microrobotic Interventional System for Targeted, Real-Time Cardiovascular...

Area of Science:

• Medical Robotics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Interventional Cardiology

Background:

• Robotic magnetic manipulation offers precise control for medical interventions.
• Widespread adoption of robotic magnetic systems requires further preclinical and clinical validation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a clinically translatable, electromagnetically controllable microrobotic interventional system (ECMIS).
• To evaluate the real-time cardiovascular intervention capabilities of the ECMIS in preclinical models.

Main Methods:

• Developed an ECMIS including a magnetically steerable microrobotic guidewire, electromagnetic actuation (EMA) system, X-ray imaging, and remote control unit.
• Tested the system in vascular phantoms for targeted cardiovascular interventions.
• Conducted in vivo preclinical studies in swine models (coronary, iliac, renal arteries) with teleoperated control.

Main Results:

• The ECMIS demonstrated precise and rapid real-time control of the microrobotic guidewire in vascular phantoms.
• Successful teleoperation of the ECMIS for cardiovascular interventions in swine models was achieved.
• The system facilitated optimal manipulation of interventional devices with reduced radiation exposure.

Conclusions:

• The developed ECMIS is a clinically translatable system for remote, real-time cardiovascular interventions.
• The system shows potential for effective use in minimally invasive procedures.
• ECMIS can enhance physician control and reduce radiation exposure during interventional procedures.