Electromagnetic Catheter Tracking and Real-time Localization in Pre-Operative MR/CT Images during Cardiac Catheterization

Abstract

Due to the heart's complexity, it is sometimes very difficult for surgeons to locate the tip of the catheter in fluoroscopic images during a cardiac procedure. In addition, it is especially difficult in cases where the branches of the vascular system are numerous, and their diameter is very small. Therefore, surgeons must inject a contrast agent and match all intraoperative 2D fluoroscopic images to anatomical structures from preoperative 3D images. It is of great importance that this mapping is done in a natural way. In this project, we are developing a solution that uses preoperative high-quality 3D MRI/CT volumes and provides real-time catheter position using an electromagnetic tracking system. The electromagnetically tracked position of the catheter will be displayed in real-time in the preoperative 3D MRI/CT images without the need for additional imaging modalities. This solution would facilitate the catheter tracking process in minimally invasive cardiac procedures.

Link: Homepage of project at DHM

Keywords: Electromagnetic Tracking, Minimally Invasive Cardiac Catheterization