Exploring Magnetic Tractor Beam Technology for Enhanced Catheter Steering: Insights From Simulation and Experimentation

Abstract

This study explores the optimisation of catheter navigation for minimally invasive medical procedures by determining the Magnetic Tractor Beam (MTB) effect. The investigation involves both experimental setups and COMSOL simulations. The main emphasis is placed on examining the impact of factors such as the co-lead magnet’s quality, the follower magnet’s size, and their arrangement in space on the effectiveness of MTB-based steering mechanisms. This research aims to identify critical variables that improve catheter navigation accuracy and manoeuvrability through experiments and advanced simulations. The simulation component is essential for analysing and understanding the complex magnetic interactions involved in the MTB effect. It enables an in-depth understanding of the magnetic fields and forces involved. The comparison of the experimental findings and simulation results shows that there is an average percentage error of 3.84%. This shows a correlation between the two, demonstrating that the simulations accurately predict the practical outcomes for MTB-based catheter navigation systems. The result confirms the reliability of simulations for the advancement and improvement of catheter navigation techniques and highlights the potential of MTB coupling as a considerable development in medical technology. This method can potentially enhance the safety, effectiveness, and results of catheter-based interventions, representing a significant advancement in the development of minimally invasive medical procedures.

Keywords

• Magnetic actuation catheter
• magnetic navigation
• magnetic navigation catheter
• magnetic stimulation
• steerable catheter