Modeling and Prediction of a Guidewire's Reachable Workspace and Deliverable Forces

Goal: In this study, we investigated the feasibility of predicting the performance of a specific guidewire in terms of its ability to cover a lesion cap surface and apply force to the lesion for a given patient's vessel anatomy. The aim of this research was to provide information that could be used to plan occlusion crossings and peripheral revascularization procedures preoperatively in a way that reduces the risk of potential intraoperative complications and increases the likelihood of success. Methods: We used finite element (FE) analysis to simulate the interaction between the guidewire and a model of a tortuous vessel, and we used this simulation to predict the reachable workspace and deliverable forces of the device for various entry positions and angles. We then validated these predictions through experiments in which we advanced a guidewire through an identical vessel phantom using a robotic manipulator. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that it may be possible to predict the performance of a guidewire and forecast the likelihood of success or failure for a given vessel anatomy and lesion morphology, which could enable improved planning and device selection.