3D Visualization in Vascular Navigation: A Breakthrough with Fiber Optic Shape Sensing
3D Visualization in Vascular Navigation
Endovascular interventions have emerged as a preferred alternative to traditional open surgery for treating many vascular diseases. However, heavy reliance on fluoroscopy and variable, complex anatomy frequently present navigational challenges for minimally invasive techniques. These challenges often result in reduced precision, prolonged procedure times, increased radiation exposure, post-procedural complications, and in the worst cases, a continued reliance on open surgery. For example, it is often challenging to cannulate the visceral vessels during Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) repairs. It can require multiple attempts, heavy radiation exposure, excessive switching of sheaths and guidewires, ultimately resulting in higher risks and suboptimal patient outcomes. These challenges highlight the need for significant advancement in surgical navigation to enable surgeons to efficiently and reliably navigate even the most tortuous anatomy with ease and minimal reliance on X-ray imaging.
Fiber optic shape sensing (FOSS) technology presents a promising solution to these challenges. By providing real-time, 3D visualization of device shape, orientation, and position within vascular anatomy, it can simplify the navigation and placement of endovascular devices. This whitepaper provides an introductory example and examination of how FOSS can address the current challenges in endovascular navigation, potentially reducing procedure times, minimizing radiation exposure, and improving overall outcomes.
The Shape Sensing Company’s (TSSC) FOSS solution utilizes a disposable bundled fiber sensor and a system which performs Optical Frequency Domain Reflectometry (OFDR) measurements. The system processes signals generated by reflected light from the sensor and produces real-time, three-dimensional measurements of sensor shape. This further enables visualization of the entire length of the device in which the fiber sensor is integrated. The unique properties of fiber optic sensors offer several advantages in medical applications – they are compact and flexible, allowing for integration into various medical devices without compromising their size or maneuverability. Unlike traditional navigation methods, FOSS does not require direct line-of-sight and is immune to electromagnetic interference, making it ideal for navigating complex anatomies and ensuring reliable performance in surgical environments. Furthermore, it provides continuous real-time shape information along the entire length of the sensor, enhancing visual feedback and precision of device manipulation.
While the fundamental concept of fiber optic shape sensing has existed for some time, its widespread adoption in medical settings has been hindered by several factors. These include challenges in accurately sensing twist, limitations in spatial resolution, and prohibitive costs associated with its use in disposable medical devices. However, TSSC has overcome these limitations as previously demonstrated in our shape and orientation accuracy whitepapers. To further validate TSSC’s FOSS technology, this whitepaper demonstrates precise and repeatable cannulation of the celiac trunk in a rigid anatomical model. This study demonstrates the technology’s value in one of the more challenging and fluoroscopy-heavy vascular procedures, and paves the way for broader implementation of FOSS in complex surgical interventions.
In this study, TSSC demonstrates the successful cannulation of the celiac trunk in a rigid anatomical model using FOSS as a navigation and visualization tool. The model…
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3D Visualization in Vascular Navigation – white paper