Sb. Solomon et al., TIPS placement in swine, guided by electromagnetic real-time needle tip localization displayed on previously acquired 3-D CT, CARDIO IN R, 22(5), 1999, pp. 411-414
Purpose: To determine the feasibility of guiding a transjugular intrahepati
c portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedure with an electromagnetic real-time ne
edle tip position sensor coupled to previously acquired 3-dimensional (3-D)
computed tomography (CT) images.
Methods: An electromagnetic position sensor was placed at the tip of a Cola
pinto needle. The real-time position and orientation of the needle tip was
then displayed on previously acquired 3-D CT images which were registered w
ith the five swine. Portal vein puncture was then attempted in all animals.
Results: The computer calculated accuracy of the position sensor was on ave
rage 3 mm. Four of five portal vein punctures were successful. In the succe
sses, only one or two attempts were necessary and success was achieved in m
inutes.
Conclusion: A real-time position sensor attached to the tip of a Colapinto
needle and coupled to previously acquired 3-D CT images may potentially aid
in entering the portal vein during the TIPS procedure.