Apparatus and method for shaped magnetic field control for catheter, guidance, control, and imaging
US8027714B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 27, 2005 |
| Grant date | Sep 27, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 23, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2025/0166
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A variable magnet system for manipulating a magnetic catheter is described. In one embodiment, a cluster of electromagnets is configured to generate a desired magnetic field. In one embodiment, one or more poles of the cluster are moveable with respect to other poles in the cluster to allow shaping of the magnetic field. In one embodiment, one or more magnetic poles can be extended or retracted to shape the magnetic field. In one embodiment, the electromagnets can be positioned to generate magnetic fields that exert a desired torque and/or movement force on the catheter. In one embodiment, the catheter guidance system includes a closed-loop servo feedback system. In one embodiment, a radar system is used to determine the location of the distal end of the catheter inside the body, thus, minimizing or eliminating the use of ionizing radiation such as X-rays. The catheter guidance system can also be used in combination with an X-ray system (or other imaging systems) to provide additional imagery to the operator. The magnetic system used in the magnetic catheter guidance system can also be used to locate the catheter tip to provide location feedback to the operator and the control syst…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.