Development of an active intravascular MR device with an optical transmission system.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a safe and reliable medical imaging method providing good soft tissue contrast while avoiding harmful ionizing radiation. It is highly desirable to use the MRI technology for interventional procedures. However, due to resonance effects that can result in tissue heating, long conducting cables must be avoided. Motivated by the need for more radio-frequency (RF) safety, we developed an optical transmission system for active intravascular MRI devices. An optical transmitter sends the MR signal via an optical fiber. A miniature optical modulator was designed to be integrated into a catheter tip. Furthermore, power is supplied optically to the transmitter. This system can target new medical applications, due to safe catheter tracking and safe intravascular imaging.