Device-Specific Calibration Methods for Optical Frequency Domain Reflectometry-Based Shape Sensing in Catheters and...

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Biomedical Engineering
• Sensing Technologies

Background:

• Minimally invasive procedures for arterial diseases and prostate cancer face navigation and precision challenges.
• Traditional imaging methods have accuracy limitations in complex anatomies.
• Fiber optic sensors with optical frequency domain reflectometry (OFDR) offer potential solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and assess custom calibration techniques for fiber optic sensors in vascular catheters and prostate surgical needles.
• To address device-specific characteristics affecting shape sensing accuracy.
• To evaluate the impact of calibration, tool characteristics, and spatial resolution on shape reconstruction.

Main Methods:

• Developed custom calibration protocols for fiber optic sensors integrated into vascular catheters and prostate surgical needles.
• Assessed shape reconstruction accuracy based on calibration methods and tool characteristics.
• Quantified root-mean-squared-error (RMSE) for both catheter and needle calibration.

Main Results:

• Catheter calibration yielded an RMSE of 1.67 ± 0.77 mm (0.4% ± 0.2%).
• Needle calibration achieved an RMSE of 0.23 ± 0.14 mm (0.2% ± 0.1%).
• Spatial resolution impact was not significant but noted as application-dependent.

Conclusions:

• Custom calibration significantly enhances the accuracy and reliability of fiber optic shape sensing for minimally invasive tools.
• These methods improve safety and precision, reducing dependence on imaging like fluoroscopy.
• Potential for automation exists, promising improved clinical outcomes and workflow efficiency.