Aspects of contact force and path configuration generated during catheter navigation

Modeling and simulation of angioplasty has become an important means for training cardiologists and has the potential to enable manufacturers of medical equipment to develop improved and advanced navigating instrumentation. This paper is concerned with formulating and implementing a mechanics-based procedure that examines catheter contact forces as well as the path configuration that arises during simulating in-situ catheter navigation. The problem is formulated on the basis of a three-dimensional analytical/numerical approach that includes large deformation of a catheter having a prescribed flexural rigidity. Accuracy and correctness of the model is assessed and verified by a direct comparison with previous results reported in the literature that have used general bending theory for evaluating large deformation of a closely related problem. The model is then used for advancing a catheter through an idealized network of three-dimensional arteries. Based upon the results reported, the authors demonstrate that accurate and reliable simulation of catheter contact forces and navigation path can be obtained for angioplasty procedures. Moreover, it is conjectured that catheter simulation software can prove to be a valuable tool for the design development, and analysis of future advanced medical devices.