POD Catheter: A Means for Small Vessel Exploration

A new magnetic catheter was developed and used for the exploration of small vessels in animals and humans. The operation of the device is based on the application of both alternating and constant magnetic fields.1 The mechanism of operation is illustrated in glass models using high-speed cinematography. The ability of the device to negotiate multiple curves and bifurcations is demonstrated. The design of the outside magnets is simple and compact, allowing easy maneuverability and reasonable power consumption. The catheter is less than 1 mm in diameter and is very flexible, being constructed of silicon rubber tubing. The device was used to selectively catheterize the middle cerebral artery from a percutaneous puncture of the carotid artery in the neck of a patient. The construction of the device and its mechanism of operation are presented. The diagnostic and therepeutic applications are discussed.