Medical applications of magnet devices

The use of magnetic devices in medically-related applications has often been frustrated by insufficient magnetic force, or by an inappropriately designed device. This paper describes magnetic treatment systems which were designed with the benefit of the cooperation of hospital personnel at all levels. Two systems are described in detail. First, a superconducting magnet, with integral orientation system, intended for use in intravascular catheter guidance. The maximum field and gradient produced by this solenoid are 20,000 Oe, and 2250 Oe/cm, respectively. The system is both powerful, and easy to use, by virtue of its completely portable design. The second is a magnetic traction device which has been successfully employed in the treatment of esophageal atresia.