Whereas magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is common in larger hospitals and used around the clock, its presence and use in smaller hospitals is still limited. During the last decade many efforts have been undertaken to advance the field of interventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Excellent soft tissue contrast, the ability to perform vessel wall imaging, more biocompatible contrast agents, and the lack of radiation for patient and physician are some of the many advocates for using MRI instead of X-ray technology in the interventional suite. However, the biggest hurdle is the shortage of MR-compatible devices.

MagnaFy is MagnaMedics’ approach to solve this problem and a specially designed technology to facilitate the use of medical devices in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). By use of a chemical process and a specific coating we are able to modify most existing quidewires, catheters and (micro)drains with small markers that become visual in a normal 1.5 Tesla MRI. The first studies of MagnaFy on a PEEK-guidewire have been performed in pre-clinical studies in collaboration with the University of Basel and are currently (jan 09) in press. Below are images of MagnaFy marked non-braided pig-tail catheter and catheterization of the left renal artery (a, b c) using a MagnaFy coated PEEK quidewires.

MagnaMedics is now seeking partners for the co-production of medical devices for interventional procedures under complete MRI guidance. We are currently focusing our attention to endovascular, neurological and drainage applications but are open for suggestions from business partners. Our scientific expert panel (chair: Dr Deniz Bilicen) is both advocating and exploring the potential of interventional MRI.