MRI and CT Compatible Needle Guidance Toolkit

Summary

Researchers at Children's National Hospital have developed a needle guidance system compatible with MRI and CT imaging systems that can be used for procedures such as arthrography thereby eliminating multiple radiation exposing steps, especially in pediatric patients.

Description

MRI arthrography among other needle guidance procedures is the procedure of choice for evaluating sports related or other injuries related to the shoulder, knee or hip. While it allows for visualization of the joint structures, it does not eliminate the time-consuming and harmful x-ray step that subjects the patient to ionizing radiation. Compared to conventional arthrography, the above described needle placement system allows for bypassing the step of taking x-rays and immediately visualizing and executing the needle placement. This technology greatly benefits all patients undergoing needle placement procedures especially pediatric patients by decreasing radiation exposure and ease of operation. The following are advantages of this technology:

1. Eliminates the need for radiation exposure to dyes
2. Efficient and time-saving (only 15 minutes compared to hours)
3. Portable, light, low maintenance compared to robotic systems
4. Easily adaptable with existing MR and CT systems

Applications

• Needle guidance for MRI and CT procedures for adult and pediatric patients

Stage of Development

• Preliminary prototype developed and tested in phantoms

Intellectual Property Status

• Patent Pending

This technology is available for exclusive or non-exclusive licensing.