Medical devices visible by magnetic resonance imaging

US8620406B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Scott R. Smith · Chaska, US
• Steven Walak · Natick, US
• Lixiao Wang · Maple Grove, US
• Jan Weber · Maple Grove, US
• Sheng Zhong · San Jose, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 23, 2004
• Grant date: Dec 31, 2013
• Expiry date: Feb 28, 2032

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G01R33/286
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Medical devices that are visible by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and optionally, other imaging techniques, are described. In some embodiments, a medical device adapted for insertion into the body includes an elongated shaft and an electrically conductive path extending spirally about a portion of the shaft. The conductive path is capable of being connected to a current source. The medical device can further include one or more contrast agents (such as MRI contrast agents, radiopaque materials, and/or ultrasound visible materials), which can be arranged in a predetermined manner.